Here is the example that I made tonight:
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
Writing Metaphors
One of my favorite teaching activities for the first day of class is to have students write a metaphor or simile for their writing, or for themselves as writers. Lately I've also had students add an image that represents their metaphor. The activity is a way to introduce some concepts and practice some technical skills right off the bat, but more importantly, it's a quick way for me to get some insight into how my students think about writing.
Here is the example that I made tonight:
Here is the example that I made tonight:
Saturday, March 28, 2015
Live blogging General Conference, March 28, April 4-5 2015
Image source: Gary Finlinson. Used by permission.
As with last conference, my blog will try to capture some of my thoughts as I listen to conference messages, rather than reporting on what was said. I encourage you to watch the messages yourself, or read the text versions which are distributed a day or so after each broadcast. You can find excellent summaries of each talk by visiting Conference at a Glance.
General Women's Session, March 28th 2015
Yes, that's right. The General Women's Session. A tiny change of wording, from "meeting" to "session" marks this twice-yearly gathering of LDS women as an integral part of General Conference. Not a nice extra. Of course it always was, but words matter; recognition matters. Such small changes happen all the time in the church without fanfare; you have to be paying attention. And remember that "by small and simple things are great things brought to pass."
Cheryl A. Esplin
The contrast set up in this talk bewteen "seemingly smart men" who ridicule the gospel, and the humble faithful, who find truth through revelation, is a common one, and it bothers me every time I hear it. Even though I believe in revelation as a source of truth, I am also a scholar. This dichotomy doesn't dominate discourse about knowledge within the church--we also often hear about the commandment to seek wisdom and knowledge on all subjects out of the best books--so why does it still bother me?
Carole M Stephens
I appreciate Sister Stevens' nuanced approach to empathy. It is a good reminder that even where our personal experience is limited, we can exercise compassion and humility in expanding our sphere of influence, and it occurs to me that a sphere of influence means not just that we are able to influence others, but that we open ourselves to more abundant positive influence from others.
Bonnie L. Oscarson
It being the 20th anniversary of the Family Proclamation, the theme of this session is clearly "defend the family" and there is a lot of emphasis on the type of defense: valiant, bold, upstanding. As traditional as LDS views on the family are in many respects, I appreciate Sister Oscarson's reminder that the church has always championed women's education, and encouraged women to be leaders in both domestic and public spheres. I believe that continuing to champion traditional roles such as wife and mother, husband and father, does not mean having "regressive" attitudes about gender roles, but rather a more expansive view of what women and men can do and be, and how society can strengthen families by supporting women and men in their family roles.
Henry B Eyring
Desires to help, to serve, to have compassion come from the Holy Spirit, and from our faithfully answering the call of discipleship to "bear one another's burdens". What strikes me most is how important it is to listen, and to understand, in order best to serve those we love. I think sometimes in our zeal to ease others' burdens, we skip that essential step. But how can we bear one another's burdens if we don't really know what they are? Another important point: we lighten others' burdens best by strengthening them, rather than merely trying to take their burdens away. Christlike compassion is key, for "charity is the pure love of Christ."
Saturday Morning Session, April 4th 2015
My live stream of conference is experiencing some technical difficulties; it keeps freezing. If you're following live, please forgive me; I'm now several minutes behind the live feed.
Henry B. Eyring
Fasting is one of the most beautiful religious principles and practices I know, and one that is practiced in different ways by many religions. Fasting is not only a practice of self-abnegation, whether of food or other things. It is self-abnegation coupled with a special gift of charity--that is, a gift above what ought to be a disciple's everyday charity. It's not about adding to a disciple's burdens, but a way God has given His faithful to bear one another's burdens. It is a source of spiritual strength and tangible goodness in my life, and I testify with President Eyring that its blessings extend around the world. Those of us who live in relatively prosperous circumstances perhaps do not fully realize the profound gift that the law of the fast is.
Boyd K. Packer
As much as I am moved by the image of covenant marriage and family relations he describes, perhaps a greater message for me lies in President Packer's actions. His health has been frail for many years, and continues to decline. Yet every six months he sits (because he can no longer stand) and shares a message and a testimony with the church and the world, though the physical struggle this entails is visibly increasing. I have asthma, and I know what it feels like to struggle to gather enough breath to speak. Yet here is a man who, while he has breath, however faint, uses it to proclaim the gospel.
Linda K. Burton
Recently I read the blog of a woman who had, as her daily scripture study, been reading all the General Conference talks given by women since 1971. Among the powerful insights she shared was a rhetorical one. She noted that over the years, women conference speakers had explicitly addressed the women of the church. Sister Ostler supposed that this contributed to the perception that when a woman stood at the conference pulpit, it was a good time to take a quick break. Though like Sister Burton today, our women leaders of the church have long addressed the general body of the church and sometimes even men directly, the perception persists for many that women's messages at conference are not as worthy of our attention. Sister Burton's counsel about righteous relationships between husbands and wives, men and women, is certainly of great importance to all of us.
Dallin H. Oaks
Last week, I taught the Parable of the Sower as part of our assigned Sunday School curriculum. As I prepared that lesson, what was impressed most upon my mind was that in the parable, we are neither the sower nor the seed, but the soil--and the power of the parable for us depends upon our reflecting on the condition of our hearts, and the knowledge that we have the power to cultivate or neglect our spiritual soil. Elder Oaks' message is a direct invitation to so reflect, and a call to repentance.
L. Whitney Clayton
"We actively choose to believe, just as we actively choose to keep other commandments." Yes, belief is a choice, but not a free one. That is, we are expected not merely to choose to believe for belief's sake alone. We are expected to study the grounds for belief, to "overcome our doubts" as Brother Clayton says. And belief entails both consequences in the form of covenants we make and keep, and blessings as we live according to our beliefs.
L. Tom Perry
I appreciate Elder Perry's emphasis on strengthening marriages and families, and stressing the ideal of family permanence, rather than only focusing on traditional family structure. As marriage and family ties are among the most precious and sacred gifts available to us in this life, we who take up the cause of defending family as the bedrock of a healthy society have much work to attend to within our own houses. More than talking about what families ought to be, we need to foster environments where families can grow, thrive, and endure. I believe that such a focus on our own families will do more to strengthen the role of family in society than will judging others' families--or their lack of families. Elder Perry's talk is not shy in denouncing "alternative lifestyles," yet my mind keeps returning to Matthew 7:3-5. I think most Latter-day Saints do not only believe but strive to live the principles of eternal families--but we still have much work to do toward building up our own families and the families within our communities. There are other threats and challenges to families besides those posed by counter-cultural perceptions of family structures.
Saturday Afternoon Session
The lds.org live feed continues to stall, so I've switched to BYUtv. Seems OK so far, but apparently I missed something in the sustaining of church officers. Oh hey! There's former BYU-Idaho President Kim B. Clark! I suspected he was going to be called as a Seventy.
Thanks to Twitter I now know that somebody voiced their opposition to sustaining the First Presidency. That's the first time in my memory that an opposing vote has been made (but not by any means the first time it's happened). It was respectfully acknowledged by President Uchtdorf.
David A. Bednar
I'll admit, I was distracted from a large part of Elder Bednar's talk by thinking and reading about the sustaining of church officers. But my roommate declared, "that talk was awesome!" so I'll definitely have to go back and watch it again.
D. Todd Christofferson
Yes, marriage is not just about the love shared by a couple, but is a heavenly gift that entails responsibilities to God, children, and society. Marriage between a man and a woman, with the attendant bearing and nurturing of human souls, holds a unique place within LDS theology. Our position on the family is ultimately founded on this doctrine, and not on social science. "No one is predestined to receive less than all that the Father has for His children."
Wilford W. Anderson
The dance steps of the gospel are the things we do; the revelations and doctrines of the gospel are the music by which we dance. What a beautiful extended metaphor! Yep, our dance is a peculiar dance. Let's not sit on the folding chairs around the edge of the cultural hall. The melodies of the gospel are love unfeigned, longsuffering, patience, and kindness. And it is up to us to practice harmony in our homes and congregations.
Dale G. Renlund
"Saints are sinners who keep on trying." Conversion is a sweet change, and one that is always available to us. "No failure ever need be final." We need space and time for personal growth. And as this is true for me, it is also true for my neighbors, perhaps especially for those who offend or injure me. There is room in the church for everyone who is trying to become more like Christ. If we don't try, we're just Latter-day Sinners. If we stop trying, we're Latter-day Quitters. And if we don't allow others to keep on trying, we're just Latter-day Hypocrites.
Michael T. Ringwood
Success is not measured by position or authority, but by the effects our service has on living souls, including our own. Whether or not we have an official calling, we can continually seek for ways to meet the needs of those within our congregations and spheres of influence.
Quentin L. Cook
I dozed off, but the beginning and end of this talk were promising. I especially appreciated the message to be respectful of those whose traditions and cultures seem to cause concern or conflict with some aspects of the church. And the message that, contrary to rumor, people are not increasingly leaving the church, and in many measures, members are stronger and more active than in the past.
So, here's a bit of a post-script, because there has been a lot of emphasis on strengthening families so far this conference, and a lot of folks both within and outside the church have this idea that the Mormon concept of an ideal family involves ultra-conservative gender roles and stuff, and I see something much more rich and complex and beautiful, as illustrated in this Mormon TV ad that I completely love.
Sunday Morning Session, April 5th, 2015
There is no sound more beautiful than the sound of "Alleluia!" sung on Easter morning. He is Risen!
My blogging may be slightly slow or sparse for the first few talks because I promised my roommates Easter Waffles, and they're still cooking!
Thomas S. Monson
God does answer prayers. My experience has rarely been as dramatic as the one shared by President Monson about the young missionary, but I have consistently received answers--often clear, sometimes involving more effort to discern.
Rosemary M. Wixom
What an important talk! If you are confident in your testimony, be willing to respect others' doubts, and if you doubt, be willing to respect others' confidence. Trust the light and reason you have--help will always come when you need it, and it will be enough. Jesus Christ will never turn you away.
Update: I love what this blogger wrote about President Wixom's talk. I hope you'll read the whole thing, but I'll share one quote in particular:
To love and empathize with another we need to do our best to hear and represent their voice authentically, and we don’t need to say just the perfect thing in response.Jose A. Teixeira
The joy of abiding in Christ can continue despite great tribulation. And "abide" denotes continual contact. Through the internet and social media, we have both the ability to disconnect from others even when we are physically present, and the ability to have more continual contact with the gospel and with those we love. Let's choose to use these tools to draw closer to each other, to the body of Christ which is the church, not forgetting to draw closer to Christ through frequent prayer and scripture study.
Gerald Causse
It is easy to take for granted the marvelous things that are close around us. The feeling of marvel can be a source of energy and joy. Yet we are prone to slip back into complacency, to lose our sense of wonder. Faith cannot be anchored in wonder--it must be anchored in the plain and simple truths of the gospel. So anchored, if we pay attention, we will find our sense of wonder at all that God has done for us constantly renewed.
Brent H. Nielson
This is the second talk of this session that focuses on how we ought to respond to those who deviate from the gospel path. We cannot compel them to stay or to return, but we ought to continually show our love, and be willing to greet them with open arms in our homes and congregations. This feels especially poignant in light of recent, public dissension by church members, which has too often been met by short-tempered invitations to "love it or leave it," or as I saw more than one Tweet express yesterday, "sustain the Brethren or find another church." Such expressions are not in harmony with the example of the Savior. I believe that if we will abide in love and patiently wait, the light of Christ will guide those we love to our eternal home, and if their path takes a few detours, those who return will have learned things that can strengthen all of us.
Jeffrey R. Holland
I was far too enthralled by Elder Holland's marvelous sermon on the Fall and the Atonement to write anything. I cannot add anything to it. Watch it, read it, again and again.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Grace unlocks the gate of heaven and opens the windows of heaven to pour out God's blessings upon us. No amount of good works can earn our way into heaven, but the mercy of Christ is a free gift, which not only opens the way but blesses those who seek the Lord with the strength to complete the journey back to God. Salvation cannot be purchased by sinners at any price. We serve God, not to earn anything but to show our love and gratitude to Him who redeemed us with his blood, and because His love working in us inspires us to do and to share goodness. God does not wait until after we have expended every effort, but commences with us immediately when we turn to Him, and abides with us as long as we endure.
Sunday Afternoon Session
We're in the home stretch of conference, and I'm physically and mentally fatigued. I've reached the stage of conference where I have to stand up to stay alert. Fortunately, I have an adjustable keyboard stand.
Robert D. Hales
Religious liberty and respect go hand in hand. And we are responsible to safeguard these sacred freedoms and rights. Ultimately, how we live our religion matters more than what we say about our religion. Amen to that!
Kevin W. Pearson
All of us are susceptible to doubt and deception. "Hang in there" is not a principle of the gospel. Enduring to the end means something more. It is a firm commitment to stay the course we entered into when we made sacred covenants. This talk is painting a pretty bleak picture of the internet and social media: "searching #spaciousbuilding will not lead you to a knowledge of the truth." But it is true that we generally find what we seek, and we cannot afford to stop seeking gospel light. So, here's a confession: I've developed the habit of checking social media in the morning before I open my scriptures. I believe there's great good to be had through social media as well as great potential for harm. But I think my priorities, as attested by my behavior, are mixed up.
Rafael E. Pino
Whoever's in charge of the sound system this conference has really reduced the volume of the non-English conference speaker. It makes it a bit easier to hear the English translator, but I miss being able to catch fragments of other languages.
Perspective really does make a difference. If we're too far away or too close, we are likely to miss important details, and even to mis-perceive what we are seeing altogether. Love and gratitude are great perspective-correcters, in my experience. And an eternal perspective can help us weather the everyday and the acute pains and anxieties of our mortal lives.
Hahaha! Dieter F Uchtdorf suddenly started conducting in German: Oops! I forgot to speak English!
Neil L Andersen
God is mindful of every people. The marvelous work of the gospel is moving forward. One way we can see the hand of God moving the work is in the continued building of temples throughout the world, enabling more saints to obtain temple covenants, and perform saving ordinances for their ancestors. As important as growth in church membership is, so is growth in the spiritual lives of church members, for the worth of souls is great in the sight of God.
Jorge F. Zeballos
Once we become covenant members of the church of Jesus Christ, our responsibility becomes nothing less than to keep that covenant and obtain exaltation. "How...could we be content with anything short of exaltation if we know that exaltation is possible?” Because I have developed a relationship of trust with the Lord, and because I have made covenants to follow Him, I can continue along the gospel path, fulfill the duties and receive the blessings of discipleship, even in the face of doubts. I can patiently persevere as I wait for further light and knowledge.
Joseph W. Sitati
This is an interesting reading of God's commandment to "be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it." Rather than taking it as rhetorical threefold amplification of a single commandment to bear children, Brother Sitati takes it as a commandment in three parts. First, to bring forth fruits of the spirit. Second, to bear and nurture children. Third, in the commandment to subdue/replenish the earth, he focuses on wise stewardship of the earth's resources. As a single, childless member, I appreciate this interpretation of Genesis 1:28, because I am able to more clearly see my role in fulfilling it, not in an anticipated future way, but here and now.
Russell M. Nelson
Is the Sabbath really a delight? For me it can be, but it isn't always. It is sometimes a struggle to continue to choose not to engage in school work on Sunday, but I've learned that I need to rest from one kind of mental work and focus on another; when I do so, I can return to my school work on Monday with renewed energy. I love to take Sunday naps, and it's the one day I don't ever feel guilty for dozing off instead of doing more work. Church attendance sometimes feels like a chore, but when I am sufficiently attending to my personal worship, then I am more able to enjoy the sacrament and appreciate the fellowship of my ward members, even if some of the talks or lessons are sometimes less edifying and more pro forma than they ought to be. One delight of my Sabbaths is the stream of family emails that trickle into my inbox over the course of the evening. Being miles away from any immediate family, I rejoice in this family bonding activity. Another delight comes when I answer the invitation to deeper study of the scriptures offered through my calling as a Sunday School teacher.
That's it, brothers and sisters. A closing song and prayer, and then it's farewell from the conference center for another six months. I kind of miss having closing remarks from President Monson, but I appreciate his age and need to conserve his strength. I was glad for his message this morning. God be with you till we meet again!
Friday, March 6, 2015
Caring, not Judging
This blog post, by the mother of a child with dystonia, is such a great reminder of the perils of judging strangers. The author, Heather, writes about having her parenting judged by a stranger on a street corner—something I'm sure we've all seen (and maybe been guilty of ourselves). She then beautifully describes what can happen when you choose to exercise empathy and offer help, rather than judging.
I think part of the reason it resonated with me is that so many instances of misjudging parents involves children with "invisible" disabilities. And although I'm not a parent myself, that's something that strikes me right at home, because "invisible" disabilities affect people of all ages, including members of my family. So I want to add to the story by telling one of my own.
At one of the universities where I've taught, the English department and the ROTC are in the same building. One morning as I stepped into the elevator on my way to my office on the 3rd floor, I was joined by a member of the faculty whose office was on the 2nd floor, as well as three cadets who were on their way to the 4th floor. As the professor stepped out on the 2nd floor and the doors were almost closed behind her, one of the cadets remarked that if she weren't too lazy to climb a single flight of stairs, maybe she could lose a few pounds and not need to take the elevator; the others laughed and nodded.
I glared, hoping that my disapproval of their hypocritical judgment was evident in my face, but said nothing. It was not my place to "out" my colleague. But I knew that she has MS, and I knew that meant taking the stairs was not an option for her. Even a short flight of stairs is a double hazard for a person whose motor skills have been affected by MS. She could easily slip and fall, and even if she didn't, taking that single flight of stairs would drastically deplete her already limited store of energy for the day.
I knew all this because my mom has MS, and not long before, she had lost her balance and fallen while simply hanging laundry outside on level ground, causing a broken hip that had to be surgically replaced. But I said nothing, because my colleague's disability was none of these strangers' business. Instead, I went to my office, closed the door, and angrily punched my chair as I fought back tears.
This dedicated teacher, and my mother, defied the MS odds because they were still walking on their own feet, without a cane or walker. They work hard to keep it that way, and part of that work involves avoiding even a few stairs whenever possible. But I realized that to these young men at the very peak of their physical condition, my colleague and my mother just looked like podgy old women who had let themselves go.
My mom still takes walks nearly every day. You can barely notice her unsteadiness—unless you know what to look for. I can spot a person with an MS walk; I've seen it all my life. But to the rest of the world, it's invisible. I've heard people whisper unkind things behind my mom's back for using the handicapped stall at a public toilet; they couldn't see that she needs the hand rail to get up and down safely. I've seen people glare at her for using one of those scooters at Wal-Mart, but then get up to reach something from a top shelf; they had no way of knowing that doing the grocery shopping, even with a little motorized help, would leave her exhausted for the rest of the day. But that's the whole point: they had no way of knowing. And it was none of their business, anyway.
So the next time you catch yourself judging a parent whose child is screaming in the middle of the cereal aisle, or a fat person stepping onto an elevator instead of taking the stairs, ask yourself: what don't you know about them? and why should you care? Hint: you should care. Of course you should. But caring is the opposite of judging.
I think part of the reason it resonated with me is that so many instances of misjudging parents involves children with "invisible" disabilities. And although I'm not a parent myself, that's something that strikes me right at home, because "invisible" disabilities affect people of all ages, including members of my family. So I want to add to the story by telling one of my own.
Image: A straight flight of stairs, at Porta Garibaldi sotterranea station, Milan.
By Dela Andy Kumahor. CC-BY 2.0
At one of the universities where I've taught, the English department and the ROTC are in the same building. One morning as I stepped into the elevator on my way to my office on the 3rd floor, I was joined by a member of the faculty whose office was on the 2nd floor, as well as three cadets who were on their way to the 4th floor. As the professor stepped out on the 2nd floor and the doors were almost closed behind her, one of the cadets remarked that if she weren't too lazy to climb a single flight of stairs, maybe she could lose a few pounds and not need to take the elevator; the others laughed and nodded.
I glared, hoping that my disapproval of their hypocritical judgment was evident in my face, but said nothing. It was not my place to "out" my colleague. But I knew that she has MS, and I knew that meant taking the stairs was not an option for her. Even a short flight of stairs is a double hazard for a person whose motor skills have been affected by MS. She could easily slip and fall, and even if she didn't, taking that single flight of stairs would drastically deplete her already limited store of energy for the day.
I knew all this because my mom has MS, and not long before, she had lost her balance and fallen while simply hanging laundry outside on level ground, causing a broken hip that had to be surgically replaced. But I said nothing, because my colleague's disability was none of these strangers' business. Instead, I went to my office, closed the door, and angrily punched my chair as I fought back tears.
This dedicated teacher, and my mother, defied the MS odds because they were still walking on their own feet, without a cane or walker. They work hard to keep it that way, and part of that work involves avoiding even a few stairs whenever possible. But I realized that to these young men at the very peak of their physical condition, my colleague and my mother just looked like podgy old women who had let themselves go.
My mom still takes walks nearly every day. You can barely notice her unsteadiness—unless you know what to look for. I can spot a person with an MS walk; I've seen it all my life. But to the rest of the world, it's invisible. I've heard people whisper unkind things behind my mom's back for using the handicapped stall at a public toilet; they couldn't see that she needs the hand rail to get up and down safely. I've seen people glare at her for using one of those scooters at Wal-Mart, but then get up to reach something from a top shelf; they had no way of knowing that doing the grocery shopping, even with a little motorized help, would leave her exhausted for the rest of the day. But that's the whole point: they had no way of knowing. And it was none of their business, anyway.
So the next time you catch yourself judging a parent whose child is screaming in the middle of the cereal aisle, or a fat person stepping onto an elevator instead of taking the stairs, ask yourself: what don't you know about them? and why should you care? Hint: you should care. Of course you should. But caring is the opposite of judging.
Friday, January 30, 2015
Old-School Revision
Experienced writers know that the hardest part of writing isn't putting words on the page: it's revision. It's massaging and coaxing and wrestling and chiseling texts into the proper shape, the proper texture. I've been working on this article for a really, really long time. It's now in its 9th major revision, and it's 30 pages long, and last week, I realized that the bottom half of it needed some serious reorganizing. So I fell back on an old-school revision activity: the literal cut and paste.
It works like this. You take a printed copy of your paper (or in my case, thankfully, only half of it), and some scissors and glue, and you cut it into paragraphs. The glue is for pasting together the parts of paragraphs that span multiple pages. After your paper has been chopped into its component paragraphs, you mix them up and you find a large surface and you lay them out in your new order (this activity can be an interesting peer response technique too, if you let someone else rearrange them for you. Among other things, when somebody else tries to put your paper back together in the right order, you really start to get a sense of how important transitions are). Here's what my reassembled text-puzzle looked like:
It works like this. You take a printed copy of your paper (or in my case, thankfully, only half of it), and some scissors and glue, and you cut it into paragraphs. The glue is for pasting together the parts of paragraphs that span multiple pages. After your paper has been chopped into its component paragraphs, you mix them up and you find a large surface and you lay them out in your new order (this activity can be an interesting peer response technique too, if you let someone else rearrange them for you. Among other things, when somebody else tries to put your paper back together in the right order, you really start to get a sense of how important transitions are). Here's what my reassembled text-puzzle looked like:
Each column is a different subheading (though actually that first column contains two subheadings (one is transitional), and the remaining four are all sub-subheadings). The paragraphs with larger space between them are primarily transitional or meta-textual. The paragraphs on their sides didn't fit conceptually very well; that's my way of visually representing that they need to be heavily reworked or deleted (one of them was deleted, along with a bunch of bits of other paragraphs; the other three were reworked).
Using this method, I was able to get a birds-eye view or map of how my paper needed to be organized, which made my digital cutting & pasting much easier to manage. Of course I didn't exactly follow the map in the end. Reorganizing so many paragraphs required a lot of line-level revising too, and that in turn created alternate (and better, I think) organizational possibilities for the several paragraphs. It also gave me a better visual sense of how my sections were balanced than merely scrolling through a .doc could. And it offered me a fresh perspective on the text overall. After 9 revisions I was really having trouble seeing the trees for the forest; physically handling each paragraph individually was eye-opening.
I'm a proud tech nerd, but I have to admit that sometimes, low-tech solutions work better.
Now if only I could think of a better title, and a better conclusion for that beast.
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Sorting Shows
I've had the flu for the past few days. Here's how I know I must be on the mend: tonight my slight OCD tendencies got the upper hand over fatigue.
I was putting Jane Eyre back in its place (I watched it on Sunday; watching chick flicks is a time-honored part of my healing process) and I noticed a bunch of my movies were out of order, and the sorting categories made no sense. Honestly, I have no idea what I was thinking the last time I tried to organize my movies--it was probably last time I was sick, actually. I'll blame Nyquil for the shelving insanity. Anyway, something obviously had to be done. I only have two shelves, but still too many movies to want to sort them merely alphabetically. Categorizing things is tricky, though.
The current disorganization and minimal shelf space left me with a dilemma: I would either have to sort my animated movies separately from my action/adventure/scifi/fantasy shows or else <gasp!> divide a category onto multiple shelves.
It was really a lesser of two evils kind of choice.
The up shot is, Pushing Daisies and The Truman Show feel so much better among the sci-fi/fantasy shows than they did among the dramas. Kenneth Branagh's Henry V still feels weird about being left behind in the drama section, but Luther (the biopic starring Joseph Fiennes; not the equally awesome but too-dark-for-me TV series with Idris Elba) thinks it should suck it up and enjoy its place in the order of things, because after all, Apollo 13 and October Sky never whine about being kept apart from the sci-fi movies (actually, Henry V is probably just sore because if it were on the upper shelf, it'd be roughly on top of Much Ado About Nothing--"there's a double meaning in that"). Meanwhile Ever After and Penelope got moved from fantasy to chick flicks and now they're planning an epic pajama party with all the Jane Austen movies. And the animated movies? They're sitting comfortably next to the much-neglected classic musicals, waiting for a family night.
I still wonder if I should stick my superhero movies all together in their own category. I have enough of them. But then where would I put The Incredibles? Animated or superhero? What about Unbreakable? It's sort of superhero, but super different than everything else in that class. And when I get the Guardians of the Galaxy blu-ray, what then? Luke Skywalker's gonna be all "Dude, come on! I am WAY more superpowered than Star Lord." THE MADNESS NEVER ENDS.
In case you're wondering: all but two of my Doctor Who discs are in one of those CaseLogic binders, along with all of Babylon 5, Buffy, Firefly, Quantum Leap, and Stargate SG-1. If it weren't for my sci-fi TV binder I'd need another two shelves. Yeah, I know. Chuck got left out. There just wasn't room.
I was putting Jane Eyre back in its place (I watched it on Sunday; watching chick flicks is a time-honored part of my healing process) and I noticed a bunch of my movies were out of order, and the sorting categories made no sense. Honestly, I have no idea what I was thinking the last time I tried to organize my movies--it was probably last time I was sick, actually. I'll blame Nyquil for the shelving insanity. Anyway, something obviously had to be done. I only have two shelves, but still too many movies to want to sort them merely alphabetically. Categorizing things is tricky, though.
The current disorganization and minimal shelf space left me with a dilemma: I would either have to sort my animated movies separately from my action/adventure/scifi/fantasy shows or else <gasp!> divide a category onto multiple shelves.
It was really a lesser of two evils kind of choice.
The up shot is, Pushing Daisies and The Truman Show feel so much better among the sci-fi/fantasy shows than they did among the dramas. Kenneth Branagh's Henry V still feels weird about being left behind in the drama section, but Luther (the biopic starring Joseph Fiennes; not the equally awesome but too-dark-for-me TV series with Idris Elba) thinks it should suck it up and enjoy its place in the order of things, because after all, Apollo 13 and October Sky never whine about being kept apart from the sci-fi movies (actually, Henry V is probably just sore because if it were on the upper shelf, it'd be roughly on top of Much Ado About Nothing--"there's a double meaning in that"). Meanwhile Ever After and Penelope got moved from fantasy to chick flicks and now they're planning an epic pajama party with all the Jane Austen movies. And the animated movies? They're sitting comfortably next to the much-neglected classic musicals, waiting for a family night.
I still wonder if I should stick my superhero movies all together in their own category. I have enough of them. But then where would I put The Incredibles? Animated or superhero? What about Unbreakable? It's sort of superhero, but super different than everything else in that class. And when I get the Guardians of the Galaxy blu-ray, what then? Luke Skywalker's gonna be all "Dude, come on! I am WAY more superpowered than Star Lord." THE MADNESS NEVER ENDS.
In case you're wondering: all but two of my Doctor Who discs are in one of those CaseLogic binders, along with all of Babylon 5, Buffy, Firefly, Quantum Leap, and Stargate SG-1. If it weren't for my sci-fi TV binder I'd need another two shelves. Yeah, I know. Chuck got left out. There just wasn't room.
Sunday, October 26, 2014
The PhD Plan of Salvation
With tongue planted firmly in cheek, I present to you:
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Of course this representation is the thinnest of analogies, and it only works when held extremely lightly. For instance, I'm not sure what in a PhD program would be analogous to the atonement of Jesus Christ; I don't know that I even dare play with such a comparison. And it is absolutely not true that job outcomes reflect the "righteousness" of the PhD-holder, or that alt-academic jobs are less worthy than faculty jobs--in this case, my diagram reflects perceptions which I regard as rather unfortunate, not reality.
But from an affective point of view, the analogy does kind of work, and it was pretty fun to think about. Beyond that, I will leave it to you to explore the scriptures to see how each stage of the plan corresponds to a stage of the PhD process. If you think different scriptures make a better fit, please do suggest them in the comments--there's no reason I couldn't revise my little diagram. Here they all are in linky form:
- The Premortal Spirit World: "First Lessons" D&C 138:56
- Birth: "The Veil of Forgetfulness" Encyclopedia of Mormonism (this phrase is not used in the scriptures but is very common in LDS parlance; hence I link to the releveant entry in the EoM instead of the standard works)
- Earth & Mortality: "A State of Probation" 2 Nephi 2:21, 27
- Death: "I Will Prove You in All Things" D&C 98:14; D&C 29:42-43; D&C 101:36-37
- The Postmortal Spirit World: "Paradise or Prison" Alma 40:12-14
- "Judgment" 2 Nephi 9:15
- Our Final Estate: "Three Degrees of Glory" or a state of no glory 1 Corinthians 15:40-41; D&C 88:20-32
Saturday, October 4, 2014
Live Blogging General Conference, October 2014
It's General Conference Time again! I live blogged the General Women's Meeting last weekend. This weekend is the "main event," with sessions at 9am and 1pm Mountain Standard Time both Saturday and Sunday. There is also a Priesthood Session Saturday night beginning at 5pm. You can watch all of conference live at lds.org and byutv.org. You can also watch or read past conferences at lds.org.
As usual, I'll be updating my post approximately after each talk. If you're following along, I encourage you to comment at any point. In the past I've done a lot of summary; this time I am going to try to focus more on commentary. If you'd like summaries of all the conference talks (including the General Women's Meeting), Deseret News has them. Scroll down to the bottom for my latest updates.
I also want to call your attention to two nifty conference-related tools. The LDS Scripture Citation Index allows you to see every scripture cited in General Conference ever, in context, so you can see which scriptures are cited most often, how they are used, etc. It's pretty fascinating. And the Corpus of LDS General Conference Talks allows you to search for any words and phrases from all recorded General Conferences, so for example you could see how word usage has changed over time. Pretty nifty, right?
SATURDAY MORNING SESSION
Thomas S. Monson, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
President Monson's first talk, as usual, highlights the progress and growth of the church, particularly its temple-building efforts, and concludes an exhortation to attend to the messages that have been prepared for us throughout conference.
Boyd K. Packer
This beautiful testimony of the life and divine mission of Jesus Christ was prefaced with a story about someone's doubting the Christianity of the LDS faith. Such stories are common both in general conference and in church lore; and with reason. Just this past week there was a minor kerfuffle over the top Google Search result being an evangelical website claiming that Mormons are not Christian. Fortunately, in my experience such doubts about our faith in Christ are increasingly fringe.
Ultimately, though, it matters little whether others believe we believe in Jesus Christ as our Redeemer. What matters is whether we are continuing to seek the blessings of the atonement in our lives, and continuing to help others to do the same.
I am impressed that Elder Packer continues to speak each conference, despite his visibly increasing frailty. He is one who demonstrates an unfaltering discipleship through his life and not just his words.
Lynn G. Robbins
Which way do you face? "Trying to please others before pleasing God is inverting the first and second great commandments." This talk is reminding me of a conversation we had in my Institute class about the relationship between doctrine, interpretation, and application. Truly, it is most important that we keep faith with God and stand for what is right, even when doing so might lead to worldly disapprobation or offense. Yet I note that the people I admire most--general authorities among them--consistently stand for truth and righteousness, they also exemplify love and kindness. It takes courage, wisdom, and humility to avoid the two extremes of conciliatory "dumbing-down" which Elder Robbins is preaching against, and cruel self-righteousness on the other. Jesus Christ is our perfect exemplar.
Cheryl A. Esplin
It is unfortunately not uncommon for many members to admit tuning out when the sisters speak--or to focus more on their outfits, or their over-enunciated, over-aspirated Utah accent than on the content of their messages. In part, this is because members of the Primary and Young Women's presidencies typically speak to and about the youth they serve, whereas the brethren are perceived as preaching doctrine to the general membership. Sister Esplin is teaching the doctrine of the atonement and the beautiful ordinance of the sacrament, with examples drawn from the lives of the youth she serves. It is a powerful, pointed, and universal message.
Chi Hong Wong
Speaking Cantonese, with simultaneous translation. Finally, we English-speaking members get to experience a bit of Conference the way the non-English-speaking world experiences it. He is retelling the story of Mark 2:1-12, comparing the four who bore the paralyzed man to members of a ward council. Perhaps those who need our help to receive the Savior's healing power are not afflicted with physical palsy, but are spiritually paralyzed. Will we be as diligent in our service as the four who, with great care, first carried the sick man to where Jesus was, then when they could find no entry through the door, lifted their brother to the roof and lowered him down into the midst of the assembled crowd. Those in need may include those who cannot or do not attend church regularly, but also those who outwardly appear to be fine. It's only by being attuned to the Spirit and really get to know our brothers and sisters that we can serve them as we ought.
D. Todd Christofferson
"Who bears responsibility for what happens in our lives?" We sometimes try to shift responsibility for our works or our welfare onto others. Though they can provide inspired counsel and support, our church leaders are not puppet-masters; we all must work out our own salvation. Our spiritual destiny is not subject to divine whim, nor to divine will alone. We have a choice about whether God's grace will transform our lives. Elder Christofferson acknowledges that personal responsibility for obedience to God's laws is dependent upon one's understanding of eternal laws; yet though there is an very important difference between ignorance and rebellion, neither will ultimately allow us to reach our full potential. I also note that the gospel is adapted to the weakest and the least of saints, but also that to whom much is given much is required. The point is, though our capacities may vary, each of us is responsible to exercise our full capacity.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf
I'm actually a little sad that he's not speaking in German. But I got over it, because oooooh! Astronomy!
All truth, all knowledge is of God. Some will certainly argue against your faith, but remember that reason is only as good as the knowledge upon which it is based, and we often lack a sufficiently full understanding of the universe because we lack, or fail to use the instruments necessary to see it. We proclaim that revelation is a source of truth and knowledge that is available to all who will sincerely seek it. "When you are trying to verify the truth of gospel principles, you must first live them. Put the teachings...to the test in your own life." Our testimonies may vary greatly in strength, but the church is a place for all who seek divine truth.
Well, that's it for Saturday morning. I'll be back at 1pm MST for the afternoon session. I'll continue to add to this post rather than starting another one.
OK, just kidding, I'm back because I was watching everybody file out of the seats on the stand and listening to the lovely organ music. The apostles' wives sit on the stand, and I suddenly wondered if the female general auxiliary leaders' husbands also got to sit on the stand. I don't think they do because these sister presidency members were still standing up there chatting amongst themselves when all the other seats except the choir were emptied. Pretty much just like relief societies all over the world--we sisters love to talk together!
SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION
Dallin H. Oaks
Christlike love for one another is difficult because we must live among those who do not share our belief in or value the teachings of Jesus Christ. It seems to me that even those who are disciples of Jesus can be hard to love at times, and may find it hard to love others as we ought.
The spirit of contention is not of God, and Jesus commanded us to eschew it. Yet we must stand firm for gospel truth. This can be difficult, but Jesus set the example. Show compassion, and be firm in the truth. Beliefs and practices that we disagree with may be legalized by the common voice of the people; if so, we will accept unfavorable results graciously and with good will, regardless of our continued disagreement.
Elder Oaks speaks of applying the principles of love and kindness, with specific examples. He calls out members who exclude, or encourage or allow their children to exclude others based on religion, race, and other differences. Likewise family relationships may become strained by differences of belief or action. Kindness is vital and powerful.
I appreciate Elder Oaks' habit of carefully articulating principles, laws, and application.
Neil L. Anderson
Elder Andersen gives advice about how to address questions about the character of Joseph Smith, and questions and criticisms of the church in general. It's important to remember that the internet doesn't come with a "truth filter". Some claims about the life of Joseph Smith are simply false. Some, while true, need to be understood in their historical context. "We do not discard something we know to be true because of something we do not yet understand."
The more I learn about Joseph Smith, the more I appreciate him as a man and as a prophet. There is much I learned only in recent years, which surprised me at first and if I had stopped there, my faith certainly would have faltered. But as I have continued to study, my faith has instead been deepened and enriched. I think that changes in Sunday school and seminary curriculum are and will continue to do a better job of teaching more than just a superficial picture of Joseph Smith.
Here is a link to Joseph Smith's testimony in his own words.
Tad R. Callister, Sunday School General President
President Callister's message primarily focuses on parents magnifying their calling to teach within their families. I appreciate that he focuses on secular as well as gospel teaching. My parents have certainly been my most important teachers--and I have been blessed with some truly extraordinary teachers throughout my life.
Jörg Klebingat
As usual, I'll be updating my post approximately after each talk. If you're following along, I encourage you to comment at any point. In the past I've done a lot of summary; this time I am going to try to focus more on commentary. If you'd like summaries of all the conference talks (including the General Women's Meeting), Deseret News has them. Scroll down to the bottom for my latest updates.
I also want to call your attention to two nifty conference-related tools. The LDS Scripture Citation Index allows you to see every scripture cited in General Conference ever, in context, so you can see which scriptures are cited most often, how they are used, etc. It's pretty fascinating. And the Corpus of LDS General Conference Talks allows you to search for any words and phrases from all recorded General Conferences, so for example you could see how word usage has changed over time. Pretty nifty, right?
image source: lds.org Royalty-free Media Library
Thomas S. Monson, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
President Monson's first talk, as usual, highlights the progress and growth of the church, particularly its temple-building efforts, and concludes an exhortation to attend to the messages that have been prepared for us throughout conference.
Boyd K. Packer
This beautiful testimony of the life and divine mission of Jesus Christ was prefaced with a story about someone's doubting the Christianity of the LDS faith. Such stories are common both in general conference and in church lore; and with reason. Just this past week there was a minor kerfuffle over the top Google Search result being an evangelical website claiming that Mormons are not Christian. Fortunately, in my experience such doubts about our faith in Christ are increasingly fringe.
Ultimately, though, it matters little whether others believe we believe in Jesus Christ as our Redeemer. What matters is whether we are continuing to seek the blessings of the atonement in our lives, and continuing to help others to do the same.
I am impressed that Elder Packer continues to speak each conference, despite his visibly increasing frailty. He is one who demonstrates an unfaltering discipleship through his life and not just his words.
Lynn G. Robbins
Which way do you face? "Trying to please others before pleasing God is inverting the first and second great commandments." This talk is reminding me of a conversation we had in my Institute class about the relationship between doctrine, interpretation, and application. Truly, it is most important that we keep faith with God and stand for what is right, even when doing so might lead to worldly disapprobation or offense. Yet I note that the people I admire most--general authorities among them--consistently stand for truth and righteousness, they also exemplify love and kindness. It takes courage, wisdom, and humility to avoid the two extremes of conciliatory "dumbing-down" which Elder Robbins is preaching against, and cruel self-righteousness on the other. Jesus Christ is our perfect exemplar.
Cheryl A. Esplin
It is unfortunately not uncommon for many members to admit tuning out when the sisters speak--or to focus more on their outfits, or their over-enunciated, over-aspirated Utah accent than on the content of their messages. In part, this is because members of the Primary and Young Women's presidencies typically speak to and about the youth they serve, whereas the brethren are perceived as preaching doctrine to the general membership. Sister Esplin is teaching the doctrine of the atonement and the beautiful ordinance of the sacrament, with examples drawn from the lives of the youth she serves. It is a powerful, pointed, and universal message.
Chi Hong Wong
Speaking Cantonese, with simultaneous translation. Finally, we English-speaking members get to experience a bit of Conference the way the non-English-speaking world experiences it. He is retelling the story of Mark 2:1-12, comparing the four who bore the paralyzed man to members of a ward council. Perhaps those who need our help to receive the Savior's healing power are not afflicted with physical palsy, but are spiritually paralyzed. Will we be as diligent in our service as the four who, with great care, first carried the sick man to where Jesus was, then when they could find no entry through the door, lifted their brother to the roof and lowered him down into the midst of the assembled crowd. Those in need may include those who cannot or do not attend church regularly, but also those who outwardly appear to be fine. It's only by being attuned to the Spirit and really get to know our brothers and sisters that we can serve them as we ought.
D. Todd Christofferson
"Who bears responsibility for what happens in our lives?" We sometimes try to shift responsibility for our works or our welfare onto others. Though they can provide inspired counsel and support, our church leaders are not puppet-masters; we all must work out our own salvation. Our spiritual destiny is not subject to divine whim, nor to divine will alone. We have a choice about whether God's grace will transform our lives. Elder Christofferson acknowledges that personal responsibility for obedience to God's laws is dependent upon one's understanding of eternal laws; yet though there is an very important difference between ignorance and rebellion, neither will ultimately allow us to reach our full potential. I also note that the gospel is adapted to the weakest and the least of saints, but also that to whom much is given much is required. The point is, though our capacities may vary, each of us is responsible to exercise our full capacity.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf
I'm actually a little sad that he's not speaking in German. But I got over it, because oooooh! Astronomy!
All truth, all knowledge is of God. Some will certainly argue against your faith, but remember that reason is only as good as the knowledge upon which it is based, and we often lack a sufficiently full understanding of the universe because we lack, or fail to use the instruments necessary to see it. We proclaim that revelation is a source of truth and knowledge that is available to all who will sincerely seek it. "When you are trying to verify the truth of gospel principles, you must first live them. Put the teachings...to the test in your own life." Our testimonies may vary greatly in strength, but the church is a place for all who seek divine truth.
Well, that's it for Saturday morning. I'll be back at 1pm MST for the afternoon session. I'll continue to add to this post rather than starting another one.
OK, just kidding, I'm back because I was watching everybody file out of the seats on the stand and listening to the lovely organ music. The apostles' wives sit on the stand, and I suddenly wondered if the female general auxiliary leaders' husbands also got to sit on the stand. I don't think they do because these sister presidency members were still standing up there chatting amongst themselves when all the other seats except the choir were emptied. Pretty much just like relief societies all over the world--we sisters love to talk together!
SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION
Dallin H. Oaks
Christlike love for one another is difficult because we must live among those who do not share our belief in or value the teachings of Jesus Christ. It seems to me that even those who are disciples of Jesus can be hard to love at times, and may find it hard to love others as we ought.
The spirit of contention is not of God, and Jesus commanded us to eschew it. Yet we must stand firm for gospel truth. This can be difficult, but Jesus set the example. Show compassion, and be firm in the truth. Beliefs and practices that we disagree with may be legalized by the common voice of the people; if so, we will accept unfavorable results graciously and with good will, regardless of our continued disagreement.
Elder Oaks speaks of applying the principles of love and kindness, with specific examples. He calls out members who exclude, or encourage or allow their children to exclude others based on religion, race, and other differences. Likewise family relationships may become strained by differences of belief or action. Kindness is vital and powerful.
I appreciate Elder Oaks' habit of carefully articulating principles, laws, and application.
Neil L. Anderson
Elder Andersen gives advice about how to address questions about the character of Joseph Smith, and questions and criticisms of the church in general. It's important to remember that the internet doesn't come with a "truth filter". Some claims about the life of Joseph Smith are simply false. Some, while true, need to be understood in their historical context. "We do not discard something we know to be true because of something we do not yet understand."
The more I learn about Joseph Smith, the more I appreciate him as a man and as a prophet. There is much I learned only in recent years, which surprised me at first and if I had stopped there, my faith certainly would have faltered. But as I have continued to study, my faith has instead been deepened and enriched. I think that changes in Sunday school and seminary curriculum are and will continue to do a better job of teaching more than just a superficial picture of Joseph Smith.
Here is a link to Joseph Smith's testimony in his own words.
Tad R. Callister, Sunday School General President
President Callister's message primarily focuses on parents magnifying their calling to teach within their families. I appreciate that he focuses on secular as well as gospel teaching. My parents have certainly been my most important teachers--and I have been blessed with some truly extraordinary teachers throughout my life.
Jörg Klebingat
6 steps to increasing your spiritual confidence:
- Take responsibility for your own spiritual wellbeing.
- Take responsibility for your own physical wellbeing.
- Embrace voluntary, whole-hearted obedience [to God] in all aspects of your life, and do the right things for the right reasons.
- Become really really good at repenting thoroughly and quickly.
- Become really really good at forgiving.
- Accept trials, setbacks, and "surprises" as part of your mortal existence, regardless of personal righteousness.
A thought has been recurring to me throughout conference: this counsel is intended to help you engage personal reflection and application, not for you to engage in judging others.
Eduardo Gavarret
(Speaking in Spanish) The invitation to come unto Christ may come to those who are not members of the church as invitations to read the Book of Mormon, meet with the missionaries, or attend sacrament services. For those who have been baptized, the invitation to come unto Christ is an invitation to keep the commandments, study the scriptures, and deepen our relationship with God.
I'm not sure we fully appreciate this historic move to give Conference speakers the choice of speaking in their native languages. Of course we Mormons have no shortage of multilingual members. But now, in addition to live translations of talks from English into hundreds of languages, the church is arranging translations from potentially as many languages to all the other languages. Logistically, this is many more times as complicated. And it is a great blessing.
Jeffrey R. Holland
Poverty is humanity's most widespread and enduring challenge. Its physical effects can be very severe and obvious. But its spiritual effects can be equally damaging, and God's commandment is clear: we are to administer to and lift up the poor. The extent of poverty throughout the world can be overwhelming. Instead of being discouraged, do what you can. The Christian imperative to care for the poor is not about statistics, but about love. It does not matter whether some have created their own difficulties--don't we all do that? Are we not all beggars before God? We obtain a remission of our sins by pleading to God, but we retain a remission of our sins by compassionately tending to the needs of the poorest among us.
Although poverty is a knotty problem, without clear, easy solutions, God will surely help you know what you can do. And there is one thing that all who are physically able can do: observe the law of the fast. more than 750,000 members were helped last year through fast offerings.
This talk reminded me a lot of Elder Holland's October 2013 talk, "Like a Broken Vessel," which addressed depression. I thank him for his calls to serve the most vulnerable among us. As a friend observed, "Holland is all heart."
L. Tom Perry
Elder Perry is extending the parable of the wheat and the tares not only to souls but to technology and media. Both the wheat and the tares are growing fast. Once again we hear of the importance of parents nurturing children in love and righteousness.
And that's it for Saturday Afternoon. I'll be back for the Priesthood session at 5.
PRIESTHOOD SESSION
OK, I'm back. But I gotta be honest. I haven't been sleeping well the last few days because of a toothache. And Conference is kind of a marathon. Also, while both the General Women's Meeting and the Priesthood Session are broadcast live and all are welcome to view both, as a non-priesthood holder I'm not the primary audience for this meeting. So if my commentary gets a little more sparse, I apologize.
Quentin L. Cook
I'm a mid-single--an unmarried member of the church between the ages of 30-45. As Elder Cook chastises priesthood-holding men who delay marriage, I can feel many of my peers flinching in pain and frustration. People in my age group hear that message so often, and it's really frustrating for those who are not delaying marriage either by conscious choice or by lack of proper preparation to repeatedly hear. I know that there are those who are not sufficiently prepared or motivated, who do need to hear that message. And for those of us who are legitimately doing all we can, perhaps you might say "well, then he isn't talking about you, so don't worry about it." And maybe you'd be right. But unless you're an apostle (and, dare I say, even if you are), I urge you, rather than berating singles for being too complacent or too picky, to instead devote your energies to helping us live full and fulfilling lives, and creating opportunities to meet other like-minded singles.
Otherwise, I really appreciate his reminder to reflect on how we choose to spend our time, and to review goals and priorities, to ensure that how we spend our time is consistent with our goals. This is definitely something I am working on. It's hard for me to work out which of the demands on my time are the best or most important. They all feel urgent and important to me.
Anyway, the tone of Elder Cook's message reminds me of the oft-repeated stereotype that the priesthood sessions are all calls to repentance, and the women's meetings are all about encouragement. I wonder if my brethren wouldn't appreciate a little more of the latter.
Craig C. Christensen
This church was literally founded on the principle that anyone--anyone--can ask God and receive personal revelation. A testimony is not like a light switch--either on or off--but like a tree, growing and developing through many stages.
Dean M. Davies
Caring for the poor and needy is an essential component of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and the law of the Fast is central to that work. This is the second time that caring for the poor and the law of the Fast has been central to a speaker's message.
Dieter H. Uchtdorf
When Jesus' disciples heard him say that one of them would betray him, rather than judging one another, each immediately asked, "Lord, is it I?" Likewise when we hear counsel and correction from priesthood authority, it is the question, "Lord, is it I?" that ought to be foremost in our minds--it is that question, and not "who is it?" that has the power to bless our lives. We humans have a tendency to be frighteningly unaware of our own incompetencies. Our blindness to our human frailties also blinds us to our divine potential. Without a clear view of ourselves we cannot make the changes needed to become better. The holy scriptures and the messages of General Conference are an effective mirror we can hold up to ourselves.
Henry B. Eyring
This was a stirring message of love, confidence, and careful mentoring of junior priesthood holders.
President Thomas S. Monson
I got called away to help put away groceries and missed this message. Lacking time tonight, I will have to come back to it later, which probably means when I read the Conference issue of the Ensign.
That's it for Saturday, but we have 4 more hours of Conference tomorrow! 9am and 1pm MST.
SUNDAY MORNING
I might be a teeny bit late starting this morning because I'm making CONFERENCE WAFFLES, and I didn't realize how long that would take. Thank goodness for opening hymn, conducting business, opening prayer, and other opening hymn. Waffles are done and I am ready to go!
Henry B. Eyring
President Eyring spoke of the essential power of continuing and confirming revelation (by confirming revelation he means personal revelation to someone that confirms the revelation received by another). He also regards his mother's prayerful counsel as having the same power in his life as the transcript of his patriarchal blessing. It seems unusual to me that Pres. Eyring quoted the words of the prayer conferring sealing keys verbatim, rather than summarizing. That seems significant, though of course it is not the primary focus of his message.
Russell M. Nelson
Wow, that picture! Who else thinks that Joseph F. Smith had the most epic beard of any LDS prophet?
It's often helpful to consider who the primary audience for a message is. Elder Nelson is teaching principles about the calling, sustaining, and work of the prophets and apostles in the latter-day church. These principles are likely well known and understood by most long-time members of the church (though there are some beautiful kernels that we all can learn from). It is worth noting, however, that the Sunday morning session is the one with the highest viewership, and the one most likely to be seen by non-members. It seems to me that Elder Nelson has tuned his message particularly with those ears in mind.
Carol F. McConkie
Sister McConkie suggested that sustaining and following the prophet may sometimes be like the widow of Zarephath feeding Elijah before herself and her son. When we put our commitment to God first, we are given spiritual sustenance to feed us through times of great hardship.
Robert D. Hales
Elder Hales talked of testimonies and how we gain them, and of revelation and the special witness of the apostles and prophets. This session so far has a remarkable degree of message continuity. Conference speakers are not assigned topics, and as you know, talks may cover a fairly wide range of themes. Thus, when we hear multiple variations on the same theme, we take special notice; this is an instance of what President Eyring called "confirming revelation."
Elder Hales himself testified of the mortal life and ministry, atonement, and resurrected appearances of Christ. I know these stories well; I never tire of hearing them.
James J. Hamula
The ordinance of the sacrament needs to become more sacred and holy to each one of us. It is a vivid representation of the atonement of Jesus Christ, and as we partake of the bread and water we ought to keep in remembrance his blood and suffering which redeems us, and his death and resurrection by which we too will overcome physical death. "The fundamental question is not whether we will live, but with whom we will live after we die."
President Thomas S. Monson
"Decisions determine destiny," an aphorism President Monson has repeated throughout his ministry--all the way back to a New Era article in 1979. More recently, it was the title of a BYU Devotional in 2005.
We can walk in the footsteps of Jesus as we study his life, ministry, and teachings, and as we seek to do his will and to do the works he called us to do. Like us he suffered pains, sorrows and temptations, and through it all he did the will of his Father. Opposition is essential to agency. Put Christ at the center of your life; no other choice has as much power to enable you to realize your divine destiny. His path will take us safely home.
Amen!
That's it for the Sunday morning session. I'll be back at 1pm MST for the final session of Conference. Meanwhile I need to walk of some of that delicious waffle breakfast, and maybe watch last night's episode of Doctor Who.
SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION
Opening prayer--"strength faithened" instead of "faith strengthened." I almost wish he had not self-corrected. I think it would be a good thing if our strength were faithened.
M. Russell Ballard
Conference talks very often address the problem of suffering--not only why we suffer, but how to endure it. Elder Ballard's message is that while suffering comes to all, those who stay on the boat--"the Old Ship Zion" as Brigham Young called it, and heed the counsel of the experienced navigators, our church leaders, will make it safely to our final destination. It's interesting that Elder Ballard should address the sentiment that church leaders live "in a bubble," out of touch with the lives of the rest of us. I have heard that sentiment expressed myself, and have learned for myself that what Elder Ballard says is true: our leaders have a wide range of training, life experience, and personal trials, as well as inspired stewardship. They are not out of touch with our lives.
Of course questions and doubt are congruent with honest discipleship, and it is appropriate that we earnestly seek greater understanding, but do not let appendages to the gospel distract us from the core principles.
Richard G. Scott
Elder Scott also spoke about the problem--the purpose--of suffering, and how to endure it well.
Four principles for enduring well:
Although poverty is a knotty problem, without clear, easy solutions, God will surely help you know what you can do. And there is one thing that all who are physically able can do: observe the law of the fast. more than 750,000 members were helped last year through fast offerings.
This talk reminded me a lot of Elder Holland's October 2013 talk, "Like a Broken Vessel," which addressed depression. I thank him for his calls to serve the most vulnerable among us. As a friend observed, "Holland is all heart."
L. Tom Perry
Elder Perry is extending the parable of the wheat and the tares not only to souls but to technology and media. Both the wheat and the tares are growing fast. Once again we hear of the importance of parents nurturing children in love and righteousness.
And that's it for Saturday Afternoon. I'll be back for the Priesthood session at 5.
PRIESTHOOD SESSION
OK, I'm back. But I gotta be honest. I haven't been sleeping well the last few days because of a toothache. And Conference is kind of a marathon. Also, while both the General Women's Meeting and the Priesthood Session are broadcast live and all are welcome to view both, as a non-priesthood holder I'm not the primary audience for this meeting. So if my commentary gets a little more sparse, I apologize.
Quentin L. Cook
I'm a mid-single--an unmarried member of the church between the ages of 30-45. As Elder Cook chastises priesthood-holding men who delay marriage, I can feel many of my peers flinching in pain and frustration. People in my age group hear that message so often, and it's really frustrating for those who are not delaying marriage either by conscious choice or by lack of proper preparation to repeatedly hear. I know that there are those who are not sufficiently prepared or motivated, who do need to hear that message. And for those of us who are legitimately doing all we can, perhaps you might say "well, then he isn't talking about you, so don't worry about it." And maybe you'd be right. But unless you're an apostle (and, dare I say, even if you are), I urge you, rather than berating singles for being too complacent or too picky, to instead devote your energies to helping us live full and fulfilling lives, and creating opportunities to meet other like-minded singles.
Otherwise, I really appreciate his reminder to reflect on how we choose to spend our time, and to review goals and priorities, to ensure that how we spend our time is consistent with our goals. This is definitely something I am working on. It's hard for me to work out which of the demands on my time are the best or most important. They all feel urgent and important to me.
Anyway, the tone of Elder Cook's message reminds me of the oft-repeated stereotype that the priesthood sessions are all calls to repentance, and the women's meetings are all about encouragement. I wonder if my brethren wouldn't appreciate a little more of the latter.
Craig C. Christensen
This church was literally founded on the principle that anyone--anyone--can ask God and receive personal revelation. A testimony is not like a light switch--either on or off--but like a tree, growing and developing through many stages.
Dean M. Davies
Caring for the poor and needy is an essential component of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and the law of the Fast is central to that work. This is the second time that caring for the poor and the law of the Fast has been central to a speaker's message.
Dieter H. Uchtdorf
When Jesus' disciples heard him say that one of them would betray him, rather than judging one another, each immediately asked, "Lord, is it I?" Likewise when we hear counsel and correction from priesthood authority, it is the question, "Lord, is it I?" that ought to be foremost in our minds--it is that question, and not "who is it?" that has the power to bless our lives. We humans have a tendency to be frighteningly unaware of our own incompetencies. Our blindness to our human frailties also blinds us to our divine potential. Without a clear view of ourselves we cannot make the changes needed to become better. The holy scriptures and the messages of General Conference are an effective mirror we can hold up to ourselves.
Henry B. Eyring
This was a stirring message of love, confidence, and careful mentoring of junior priesthood holders.
President Thomas S. Monson
I got called away to help put away groceries and missed this message. Lacking time tonight, I will have to come back to it later, which probably means when I read the Conference issue of the Ensign.
That's it for Saturday, but we have 4 more hours of Conference tomorrow! 9am and 1pm MST.
SUNDAY MORNING
Henry B. Eyring
President Eyring spoke of the essential power of continuing and confirming revelation (by confirming revelation he means personal revelation to someone that confirms the revelation received by another). He also regards his mother's prayerful counsel as having the same power in his life as the transcript of his patriarchal blessing. It seems unusual to me that Pres. Eyring quoted the words of the prayer conferring sealing keys verbatim, rather than summarizing. That seems significant, though of course it is not the primary focus of his message.
Russell M. Nelson
Wow, that picture! Who else thinks that Joseph F. Smith had the most epic beard of any LDS prophet?
Carol F. McConkie
Sister McConkie suggested that sustaining and following the prophet may sometimes be like the widow of Zarephath feeding Elijah before herself and her son. When we put our commitment to God first, we are given spiritual sustenance to feed us through times of great hardship.
Robert D. Hales
Elder Hales talked of testimonies and how we gain them, and of revelation and the special witness of the apostles and prophets. This session so far has a remarkable degree of message continuity. Conference speakers are not assigned topics, and as you know, talks may cover a fairly wide range of themes. Thus, when we hear multiple variations on the same theme, we take special notice; this is an instance of what President Eyring called "confirming revelation."
Elder Hales himself testified of the mortal life and ministry, atonement, and resurrected appearances of Christ. I know these stories well; I never tire of hearing them.
James J. Hamula
The ordinance of the sacrament needs to become more sacred and holy to each one of us. It is a vivid representation of the atonement of Jesus Christ, and as we partake of the bread and water we ought to keep in remembrance his blood and suffering which redeems us, and his death and resurrection by which we too will overcome physical death. "The fundamental question is not whether we will live, but with whom we will live after we die."
President Thomas S. Monson
"Decisions determine destiny," an aphorism President Monson has repeated throughout his ministry--all the way back to a New Era article in 1979. More recently, it was the title of a BYU Devotional in 2005.
We can walk in the footsteps of Jesus as we study his life, ministry, and teachings, and as we seek to do his will and to do the works he called us to do. Like us he suffered pains, sorrows and temptations, and through it all he did the will of his Father. Opposition is essential to agency. Put Christ at the center of your life; no other choice has as much power to enable you to realize your divine destiny. His path will take us safely home.
Amen!
That's it for the Sunday morning session. I'll be back at 1pm MST for the final session of Conference. Meanwhile I need to walk of some of that delicious waffle breakfast, and maybe watch last night's episode of Doctor Who.
SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION
Opening prayer--"strength faithened" instead of "faith strengthened." I almost wish he had not self-corrected. I think it would be a good thing if our strength were faithened.
M. Russell Ballard
Conference talks very often address the problem of suffering--not only why we suffer, but how to endure it. Elder Ballard's message is that while suffering comes to all, those who stay on the boat--"the Old Ship Zion" as Brigham Young called it, and heed the counsel of the experienced navigators, our church leaders, will make it safely to our final destination. It's interesting that Elder Ballard should address the sentiment that church leaders live "in a bubble," out of touch with the lives of the rest of us. I have heard that sentiment expressed myself, and have learned for myself that what Elder Ballard says is true: our leaders have a wide range of training, life experience, and personal trials, as well as inspired stewardship. They are not out of touch with our lives.
Of course questions and doubt are congruent with honest discipleship, and it is appropriate that we earnestly seek greater understanding, but do not let appendages to the gospel distract us from the core principles.
Richard G. Scott
Elder Scott also spoke about the problem--the purpose--of suffering, and how to endure it well.
Four principles for enduring well:
- Pray often. Express gratitude and other feelings, seek knowledge, counsel and blessings. Pray about great things and small; there is no aspect of your life that does not interest God.
- Study the word of God in the scriptures. Choose to take time to study them. Studying the word of God daily is more important than sleep, school work, entertainment and social activities. You may need to reorganize your priorities to make room for regular scripture study. If so, DO IT.
- Hold weekly family home evening.
- Go to the temple. Make it a regular part of your life. Listen to and ponder the words of the ordinances of the temple. Many more blessings come from providing your own family names for temple work.
Carlos A Godoy
(speaking in Portugese) If you continue to live as you are living, will the blessings promised in your patriarchal blessing be fulfilled? It is not just a matter of living a good life, but ensuring that we live our lives in such a way that we can fulfill God's plan for us. In addition to understanding and seeking to fulfill God's vision for ourselves, we will need to help our loved ones share the vision, and we need to share God's vision for them. Just because things are going well does not mean that we should not, from time to time, consider whether there might not be something better.
Allen F. Packer
I get what he's saying with the spiritual passport analogy, but I feel like it could easily be taken too far. While it's true that God has ordained the way by which we come unto him, and that there is no other way, I am not sure I'm entirely comfortable with the idea of qualifying for salvation as a matter of getting stamps in a passport.
Despite the scope and speed of family history work, we find that relatively few members actively participate in the work of finding and preparing family names for the temple. Everyone can do it.
Hugo E. Martinez
(speaking in Spanish) The Savior focuses on the individual, and on the family. "First observe, then serve" -Linda K. Burton. The lovingkindness enacted through personal ministry is greater than merely the material service provided, and its effects are far-reaching. Family history, including journal-keeping, is about creating bonds among the living as well as the dead. My sisters-in-law are doing a great job of turning the hearts of the living to the living, as Elder Martinez says, through regular family emails, which they encourage their children to contribute to. Because of their examples, nearly all of my immediate family has taken up this practice. (Unfortunately in my case it has all but replaced writing in my personal journal--a weekly habit I kept up for many years before I fell out of it a couple of years ago. It's much harder to make or renew a habit than to keep it).
Larry S. Kacher
There are many currents in life--some safe and others potentially fatal. When we find ourselves struggling in difficult currents, it's important to know how to turn in the right direction to get back to safety. Doubts and questions are normal and can be a powerful means of receiving greater knowledge and understanding--again, if answers are sincerely and humbly sought in faith. If we venture into dangerous or deadly currents, we run the risk that others who trust us may follow, and be lost as well.
David A Bednar
Elder Bednar specifically addressed members of the audience who are not members of the church. We are a missionary church, and we take seriously our responsibility to teach all nations and all people the message of the gospel. Our invitations to attend church or meet with the missionaries are not trying to "sell a product." There is no coercion. We are inviting you to hear the truths of the restored gospel so that you may study them and come to know of their truth for yourself. Bring all that you know is good, true, and praiseworthy, and see whether the restored gospel enlarges and enriches that which you already know to be true.
Elder Bednar related how, when one of his young children was injured while playing, rather than rushing to help, he and his wife waited to see whether their teaching to "be your brother's keeper" would have the desired effect. And sure enough, an older brother did wash the wound, apply ointment, and bandage the injury; the younger brother then enthusiastically used the remaining ointment and bandages to assist other children outside. You really should listen to this story, if you haven't already. I really appreciate Elder Bednar's ability to use such stories to illustrate gospel principles without being heavy-handed. And I'm going to make a prediction: this story will be made into a Mormon Message.
The invitations we extend to friends and neighbors are born out of a desire to share the joy and blessings we have received through the gospel.
President Thomas S. Monson
President Monson's closing remarks, as usual, focus on expressions of gratitude, and a desire that we will apply the lessons we've been taught, and that we be faithful followers of Christ, becoming kinder, more loving, thoughtful and that we share our concern and helping hands to the poor, weak, and needy. As always, he invoked a blessing upon us.
Conference is over for another six months. I'm grateful for the things we were taught, and the things I learned--answers to prayers and invitations to do better. While these notes are primarily for my own sake, I hope that others will also find them edifying.
Allen F. Packer
I get what he's saying with the spiritual passport analogy, but I feel like it could easily be taken too far. While it's true that God has ordained the way by which we come unto him, and that there is no other way, I am not sure I'm entirely comfortable with the idea of qualifying for salvation as a matter of getting stamps in a passport.
Despite the scope and speed of family history work, we find that relatively few members actively participate in the work of finding and preparing family names for the temple. Everyone can do it.
Hugo E. Martinez
(speaking in Spanish) The Savior focuses on the individual, and on the family. "First observe, then serve" -Linda K. Burton. The lovingkindness enacted through personal ministry is greater than merely the material service provided, and its effects are far-reaching. Family history, including journal-keeping, is about creating bonds among the living as well as the dead. My sisters-in-law are doing a great job of turning the hearts of the living to the living, as Elder Martinez says, through regular family emails, which they encourage their children to contribute to. Because of their examples, nearly all of my immediate family has taken up this practice. (Unfortunately in my case it has all but replaced writing in my personal journal--a weekly habit I kept up for many years before I fell out of it a couple of years ago. It's much harder to make or renew a habit than to keep it).
Larry S. Kacher
There are many currents in life--some safe and others potentially fatal. When we find ourselves struggling in difficult currents, it's important to know how to turn in the right direction to get back to safety. Doubts and questions are normal and can be a powerful means of receiving greater knowledge and understanding--again, if answers are sincerely and humbly sought in faith. If we venture into dangerous or deadly currents, we run the risk that others who trust us may follow, and be lost as well.
David A Bednar
Elder Bednar specifically addressed members of the audience who are not members of the church. We are a missionary church, and we take seriously our responsibility to teach all nations and all people the message of the gospel. Our invitations to attend church or meet with the missionaries are not trying to "sell a product." There is no coercion. We are inviting you to hear the truths of the restored gospel so that you may study them and come to know of their truth for yourself. Bring all that you know is good, true, and praiseworthy, and see whether the restored gospel enlarges and enriches that which you already know to be true.
Elder Bednar related how, when one of his young children was injured while playing, rather than rushing to help, he and his wife waited to see whether their teaching to "be your brother's keeper" would have the desired effect. And sure enough, an older brother did wash the wound, apply ointment, and bandage the injury; the younger brother then enthusiastically used the remaining ointment and bandages to assist other children outside. You really should listen to this story, if you haven't already. I really appreciate Elder Bednar's ability to use such stories to illustrate gospel principles without being heavy-handed. And I'm going to make a prediction: this story will be made into a Mormon Message.
The invitations we extend to friends and neighbors are born out of a desire to share the joy and blessings we have received through the gospel.
President Thomas S. Monson
President Monson's closing remarks, as usual, focus on expressions of gratitude, and a desire that we will apply the lessons we've been taught, and that we be faithful followers of Christ, becoming kinder, more loving, thoughtful and that we share our concern and helping hands to the poor, weak, and needy. As always, he invoked a blessing upon us.
Conference is over for another six months. I'm grateful for the things we were taught, and the things I learned--answers to prayers and invitations to do better. While these notes are primarily for my own sake, I hope that others will also find them edifying.
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