063025, Monday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 226.8,GMI: 6.9, Steps (previous day): 2,319

Journal Entry:

062925, Sunday (Patience)

Daily Vitals: Weight: 224.4, GMI: 6.9, Steps (previous day): 7,717

Journal Entry:

We took a long drive yesterday up to East Canyon and then decided to try for lunch at the Mirror Lake Diner in Kamas. At 2:30 PM it was jammed. No room in the parking lot and a huge waiting list. I've never seen it like that before. So we drove back down to Orem and had lunch at Cubby's on State street.

I also recently read that Vessel Kitchen restaurant is moving in to the facility recently abandoned by the Corner Bakery near Target in Orem. We really like Vessel Kitchen but they have a restaurant in American Fork that Cathy got "Gluttoned" at twice. We are hoping that this new one will be run a little better.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 68:33 And a commandment I give unto them—that he that observeth not his prayers before the Lord in the season thereof, let him be had in remembrance before the judge of my people.

"The purpose of prayer, however, is not to appease a vindictive Deity; nor is it to court favors from an indulgent Father. It is to attune oneself with the spirit or light which “proceedeth forth from the presence of God to fill the immensity of space.” In that light is to be found sure answers to all our needs.

Prayer is the key which unlocks the door and lets Christ into our lives"

President Marion G.Romney

"In the 1960s, a professor at Stanford University began a modest experiment testing the willpower of four-year-old children. He placed before them a large marshmallow and then told them they could eat it right away or, if they waited for 15 minutes, they could have two marshmallows.

He then left the children alone and watched what happened behind a two-way mirror. Some of the children ate the marshmallow immediately; some could wait only a few minutes before giving in to temptation. Only 30 percent were able to wait.

It was a mildly interesting experiment, and the professor moved on to other areas of research, for, in his own words, “there are only so many things you can do with kids trying not to eat marshmallows.” But as time went on, he kept track of the children and began to notice an interesting correlation: the children who could not wait struggled later in life and had more behavioral problems, while those who waited tended to be more positive and better motivated, have higher grades and incomes, and have healthier relationships.

What started as a simple experiment with children and marshmallows became a landmark study suggesting that the ability to wait—to be patient—was a key character trait that might predict later success in life."

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf 

062825, Saturday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.7,  GMI: 6.9, Steps (previous day): 4,485

Journal Entry:

We enjoyed going over to Beth's for dinner last night and visiting with her, Karen, Andrea and Craig plus Kathy was visiting from Arizona and it's always nice do see her.

Craig and Andrea have done a spectacular remodel of their home. It was very nice before but what they have done is just beautiful.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 68:29 And the inhabitants of Zion shall also observe the Sabbath day to keep it holy

"No matter where we live or in what position we serve, all of us need to determine which way we face. God’s commandments serve as a standard against which priorities can be measured. Our respect for the first commandment fashions our feelings for all the others. Consider the commandment to keep the Sabbath day holy, for example.  We live in a time when many people throughout the world have transferred their allegiance on the Sabbath from places of worship to places of amusement. Again I ask, “Which way do you face?”

Elder Russell M. Nelson, Apostle, April 1996

062725, Friday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.3, GMI: 6.9, Steps (previous day): 10,875

Journal Entry:

Come Follow Me 

D&C 68:28 And they shall also teach their children to pray, and to walk uprightly before the Lord.

"As parents, we introduce our children to Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. We help our children say their first prayer. We offer guidance and support as they enter the covenant path through baptism. We teach them to obey God’s commandments. We educate them about His plan for His children, and we help them recognize the whisperings of the Holy Ghost. We tell them stories of ancient prophets and encourage them to follow living ones. We pray for their triumphs and ache with them during their trials. We testify to our children of temple blessings, and we strive to prepare them well to serve full-time missions. We offer loving counsel as our children become parents themselves. But—even then—we never stop being their parents. We never stop being their teachers. We are never released from these eternal callings."

Devin G. Durant, First Counselor in the Sunday School General Presidency, April 2018

062625, Thursday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 223.7, GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day): 7,654

Journal Entry:

Had a great day yesterday. After serving in the temple we went to a movie late yesterday afternoon then a late dinner at In-N-Out before coming home. Nice date night.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 68:10 And he that believeth shall be blest with signs following, even as it is written.

11 And unto you it shall be given to know the signs of the times, and the signs of the coming of the Son of Man;

"We are, therefore, not ignorant of the challenges of the world, nor are we unaware of the difficulties of our times. But this does not mean that we should burden ourselves or others with constant fear. Rather than dwelling on the immensity of our challenges, would it not be better to focus on the infinite greatness, goodness, and absolute power of our God, trusting Him and preparing with a joyful heart for the return of Jesus the Christ?

As His covenant people, we need not be paralyzed by fear because bad things might happen. Instead, we can move forward with faith, courage, determination, and trust in God as we approach the challenges and opportunities ahead."

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Apostle

062525, Wednesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 222.4, GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day): 4,295

Journal Entry:

We served at the Bishops Storehouse yesterday and I'm planning on serving as a temple worker today.

There's a lot of news about the middle east with Iran and Israel attacking each other. President Trump is trying to get that conflict settled but it's touch and go right now.

The Lindon Temple seems near completion but there is no indication of when it might open.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 68:6 Wherefore, be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you; and ye shall bear record of me, even Jesus Christ, that I am the Son of the living God, that I was, that I am, and that I am to come.

"Be of good cheer, and do not fear,” the Lord has said. Why? How, when challenges face us at every turn? Because of the promise made by Jesus Christ: “I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you.” 

President Nelson describes the restored gospel as “a message of joy!” And he explains, “The joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives.”

Elder Ronald A. Rasband, Apostle

062425, Tuesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 223.1, GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day): 7,771

Journal Entry:

We are going to have Jill and Fredrick over for a couple of hours today while Jake takes Meredith out to her birthday lunch. Then we will serve at the Bishops Storehouse.

Yesterday was breakfast at The Mirror Lake Diner up in Kamas followed by a visit to Ballarina Farms little country shop also up near Kamas.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 68:2 And, behold, and lo, this is an ensample unto all those who were ordained unto this priesthood, whose mission is appointed unto them to go forth—

3 And this is the ensample unto them, that they shall speak as they are moved upon by the Holy Ghost.

4 And whatsoever they shall speak when moved upon by the Holy Ghost shall be scripture, shall be the will of the Lord, shall be the mind of the Lord, shall be the word of the Lord, shall be the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto salvation.

"We are grateful for a church “built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone.” The Lord’s house is a house of order, and we need never be deceived about where to look for answers to our questions or uncertain about which voice to follow. We need not be “tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine.” God reveals His word through His ordained servants, “for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God.” When we choose to live according to the words of the prophets, we are on the covenant path that leads to eternal perfection."

Sister Carol F. McConkie

First Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency, October 2014

Reverence

"My brothers and sisters, reverence for the sacred fosters genuine gratitude, expands true happiness, leads our minds to revelation, and brings greater joy to our lives. It places our feet on holy ground and lifts our hearts to Deity.

My dear brothers and sisters, as sophisticated as modern technology has become, it simply cannot simulate the wonder, awe, and amazement found in the kind of reverence born from the influence of the Holy Ghost."

Elder Ulisses Soares

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

062825, Monday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.7, GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day): 3,724

Journal Entry:

Come Follow Me 

D&C 67:13 Ye are not able to abide the presence of God now, neither the ministering of angels; wherefore, continue in patience until ye are perfected.

"Patience is a process of perfection. The Savior Himself said that in your patience you possess your souls.  Or, to use another translation of the Greek text, in your patience you win mastery of your souls. Patience means to abide in faith, knowing that sometimes it is in the waiting rather than in the receiving that we grow the most. This was true in the time of the Savior. It is true in our time as well, for we are commanded in these latter days to “continue in patience until ye are perfected.” 

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Second Counselor in the First Presidency, April 2010

062225, Sunday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 223.5, GMI: 6.8, A1c: 7.2, Steps (previous day): 8,796

Journal Entry:

We took a nice walk yesterday morning in Vivian Park and Provo Canyon. Then attended an endowment session at the Mt Timpanogos temple.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 65:5 Call upon the Lord, that his kingdom may go forth upon the earth, that the inhabitants thereof may receive it, and be prepared for the days to come, in the which the Son of Man shall come down in heaven, clothed in the brightness of his glory, to meet the kingdom of God which is set up on the earth.

"Our faith grows as we anticipate the glorious day of the Savior’s return to the earth. The thought of His coming stirs my soul. It will be breathtaking! The scope and grandeur, the vastness and magnificence, will exceed anything mortal eyes have ever seen or experienced."

Elder Neil L. Andersen, Apostle

"Zion is Zion because of the character, attributes, and faithfulness of her citizens. Remember, “the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them” (⁠Moses 7:18⁠). If we would establish Zion in our homes, branches, wards, and stakes, we must rise to this standard. It will be necessary (1) to become unified in one heart and one mind; (2) to become, individually and collectively, a holy people; and (3) to care for the poor and needy with such effectiveness that we eliminate poverty among us. We cannot wait until Zion comes for these things to happen—Zion will come only as they happen.

Elder D. Todd Chrisofferson, Apostle

062125, Saturday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 222.4, GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day): 9,365

Journal Entry:

Didn't do much yesterday. We got a pretty good walk done during the cooler morning hours. We're planning on going to the 1130 session at Mt. Timpanogos temple today. Maybe get a walk in early.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 65:2 The keys of the kingdom of God are committed unto man on the earth, and from thence shall the gospel roll forth unto the ends of the earth, as the stone which is cut out of the mountain without hands shall roll forth, until it has filled the whole earth.

"...[N]o matter how large the organization of the Church becomes or how many millions of members join our ranks, no matter how many continents and countries our missionaries enter or how many different languages we speak, the true success of the gospel of Jesus Christ will be measured by the spiritual strength of its individual members. We need the strength of conviction that is found in the heart of every loyal disciple of Christ."

President Boyd K. Packer, President of The Quorum of Twelve Apostles, October 2014

062025, Friday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 222.0 GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day): 5,394

Journal Entry:

Feeling better today... Almost normal. Nothing scheduled. Gonna be hot and windy.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 64:34 Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind; and the willing and obedient shall eat the good of the land of Zion in these last days.

35 And the rebellious shall be cut off out of the land of Zion, and shall be sent away, and shall not inherit the land.

...[D]o the right things for the right reasons. The Lord, who “requireth the heart and a willing mind” and who “is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart,” knows why you go to church—whether you are present in body only or truly worshipping. You can’t sing on Sunday, “O Babylon, O Babylon, [I] bid thee farewell” and then seek or tolerate its company again moments later. Remember that casualness in spiritual matters never was happiness. Make the Church and the restored gospel your whole life, not just a part of your outward or social life.

Elder Jörg Klebingat of The Seventy, October 2014

Righteousness is the better way. Finally, it is the only way. In righteousness is the power to provide the joy and happiness and the safety and security that men and women have longed for and searched for through all the generations of time.

It seems like such a simple solution, but the reality is that “Satan is abroad in the land, and he goeth forth deceiving the nations” (D&C 52:14). There is opposition. Right and wrong do exist. Our actions do have moral consequences. There is no right way to do a wrong thing.

061925, Thursday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 220.9, GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day): 3,776

Journal Entry:

I've been having diarrhea since Monday morning. It's as bad as any I have had before that I can remember. For some reason it eased up a little on Tuesday so I was able to serve at the Bishops Storehouse. Then it came back on Wednesday morning but eased up in time for me to serve at the temple. Then this morning it came back pretty harshly so I went to see Dr. Welch and he made some recommendations but felt, as I do that it would heal up on its own. He recommended Imodium so we got some of that and I took some this afternoon.

I thought I wrote something yesterday but I either didn't or I messed it up. Either way - making it up today.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 64: 32 But all things must come to pass in their time.

33 Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great.

"We must not become weary of doing good, and we must not become impatient; the changes we seek will come about “in their time.” Most important, the great work we wish to do will proceed from “small things.”

…Spirituality through prayer and study. Service to others. Generous tithes and offerings. These are not new principles. These are some of the “small things” that are prerequisites to that which is great.

…[D]on’t become weary in doing good. If we are patient, we can experience the change of heart we seek."

Sister Kathleen H. Hughes, 

First Counselor, Relief Society General Presidency, October 2004

061825, Wednesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 221.5, GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day): 6,498

Journal Entry:

Come Follow Me :

D&C 64:23 Behold, now it is called today until the coming of the Son of Man, and verily it is a day of sacrifice, and a day for the tithing of my people; for he that is tithed shall not be burned at his coming.

"While tithing is paid with money, more importantly it is paid with faith. I have never met an individual who paid an honest tithe who complained about it. Rather, he put his trust in the Lord, and the Lord never failed him."

President Gordon B. Hinckley

061725, Tuesday - Come Follow Me - Forgiveness

Daily Vitals: Weight: 223.6, GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day): 2,451

Journal Entry:

Had a lot of stomach issues last night. Didn't sleep well. Hopefully that will end today. Right now it's too early to say but I would like to serve at the Bishops Storehouse later today. We'll see.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 64:9 Wherefore, I say unto you, that ye ought to forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not his brother his trespasses standeth condemned before the Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin.

10 I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men.

11 And ye ought to say in your hearts—let God judge between me and thee, and reward thee according to thy deeds.

"In all of our sacred scripture, there is no more beautiful story of forgiveness than that of the prodigal son found in the 15th chapter of Luke. Everyone should read and ponder it occasionally.

“And when [the prodigal] had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.

“And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.

“And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.

“And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!

“I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,

“And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.

“And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

“And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son” (⁠Luke 15:14–21⁠).

And the father caused that a great feast should be held, and when his other son complained, he said to him, “It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found” (⁠Luke 15:32⁠).

When there has been wrongdoing and then there has come repentance, followed by forgiveness, then literally the offender who was lost is found, and he who was dead is made alive.

How wonderful are the blessings of mercy and forgiveness."

Elder Boyd K. Packer told a story in the June 2015 Ensign that illustrates the importance of forgiveness:

If you suffer from worry, from grief or shame or jealousy or disappointment or envy, from self-recrimination or self-justification, consider this lesson taught to me many years ago by a patriarch. He was as saintly a man as I have ever known. ...

He grew up in a little community with a desire to make something of himself. He struggled to get an education.

He married his sweetheart, and presently everything was just right. He was well employed, with a bright future. They were deeply in love, and she was expecting their first child.

The night the baby was to be born, there were complications. The only doctor was somewhere in the countryside tending to the sick. ...

Finally the doctor was located. In the emergency, he acted quickly and soon had things in order. The baby was born and the crisis, it appeared, was over.

Some days later, the young mother died from the very infection that the doctor had been treating at another home that night.

John’s world was shattered. Everything was not right now; everything was all wrong. He had lost his wife. He had no way to tend both the baby and his work.

As the weeks wore on, his grief festered. “That doctor should not be allowed to practice,” he would say. “He brought that infection to my wife. If he had been careful, she would be alive today.”

He thought of little else, and in his bitterness, he became threatening. ...

One night a knock came at his door. A little girl said simply, “Daddy wants you to come over. He wants to talk to you.”

“Daddy” was the stake president. ...

This spiritual shepherd had been watching his flock and had something to say to him.

The counsel from that wise servant was simply, “John, leave it alone. Nothing you do about it will bring her back. Anything you do will make it worse. John, leave it alone.” ...

He struggled in agony to get hold of himself. And finally, he determined that whatever else the issues were, he should be obedient.

Obedience is powerful spiritual medicine. It comes close to being a cure-all.

He determined to follow the counsel of that wise spiritual leader. He would leave it alone.

Then he told me, “... It was not until I was an old man that I could finally see a poor country doctor—overworked, underpaid, run ragged from patient to patient, with little medicine, no hospital, few instruments, struggling to save lives, and succeeding for the most part.

He had come in a moment of crisis, when two lives hung in the balance, and had acted without delay.

“I was an old man,” he repeated, “before I finally understood! I would have ruined my life,” he said, “and the lives of others.”

Many times he had thanked the Lord on his knees for a wise spiritual leader who counseled simply, “John, leave it alone.”

061625, Monday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.7,  GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day): 4,906

Journal Entry:

Yesterday was father's day and Cathy, as is her custom, saw it as an opportunity to host a nice get together... This time with Jake, Jill and Fredrick (Erica and Alexander were ill) and Eileen Black, Meredith's mom. Meredith was still on her way home from her trip to London to visit her sister. We had a good time and a nice visit with everyone. Cathy is going to need some time to recover. She loves putting on a nice dinner and did a great job but she's suffering today. She has difficulty recognizing that she has aged some and doesn't have the physical stamina she once did.

So today should be peaceful for me. I'm in pretty good health right now. I don't bend very well but if I did a better job of doing my physical therapy exercises that would undoubtedly help.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 64:2 For verily I say unto you, I will that ye should overcome the world; wherefore I will have compassion upon you.

"…[B]ecause Jesus Christ overcame this fallen world, and because He atoned for each of us, you too can overcome this sin-saturated, self-centered, and often exhausting world…

Each time you seek for and follow the promptings of the Spirit, each time you do anything good—things that “the natural man” would not do—you are overcoming the world.

Overcoming the world is not an event that happens in a day or two. It happens over a lifetime as we repeatedly embrace the doctrine of Christ."

President Russell M Nelson, October 2022

Elder Boyd K. Packer in his general conference address in October 2007 shared the story of bearing his testimony to the First Presidency of the Church:

Forty-six years ago I was a 37-year-old seminary supervisor. My Church calling was as an assistant teacher in a class in the Lindon Ward.

To my great surprise, I was called to meet with President David O. McKay. He took both of my hands in his and called me to be one of the General Authorities, an Assistant to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

A few days later, I came to Salt Lake City to meet with the First Presidency to be set apart as one of the General Authorities of the Church. This was the first time I had met with the First Presidency—President David O. McKay and his counselors, President Hugh B. Brown and President Henry D. Moyle.

President McKay explained that one of the responsibilities of an Assistant to the Twelve was to stand with the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as a special witness and to bear testimony that Jesus is the Christ. What he said next overwhelmed me: “Before we proceed to set you apart, I ask you to bear your testimony to us. We want to know if you have that witness.”

I did the best I could. I bore my testimony the same as I might have in a fast and testimony meeting in my ward. To my surprise, the Brethren of the Presidency seemed pleased and proceeded to confer the office upon me.

That puzzled me greatly, for I had supposed that someone called to such an office would have an unusual, different, and greatly enlarged testimony and spiritual power.

It puzzled me for a long time until finally I could see that I already had what was required: an abiding testimony in my heart of the Restoration of the fulness of the gospel through the Prophet Joseph Smith, that we have a Heavenly Father, and that Jesus Christ is our Redeemer. I may not have known all about it, but I did have a testimony, and I was willing to learn.[4]

061525, Sunday, Father's Day

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.9, GMI: 6.8, Steps (previous day): 6,638

Journal Entry:

So here we are on Father's Day and I need to catch up on my journal entries.

The weather has been good but quite warm. Nevertheless we fixed up the front garden quite a bit and also the back patio. So photos of both are herewith attached.

Yesterday was Flag Day and I was pleased to have our newest and finest flags on display.

Since today is Father's Day and we are having some folks over, I fixed up the back patio so we might enjoy being out there. It's pushing 90 degrees already and it's not even non yet so I might be lonesome barbecuing out there.

Erica and Alexander are sick so our guest list will include only Jake, Jill, Fredrick and Jake's Mo-in-law.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 63:47 He that is faithful and endureth shall overcome the world.

"While speaking to elders assembled in Kirtland, the Lord said, “I will that ye should overcome the world; wherefore I will have compassion upon you.” The Lord knows our weakness and the eternal consequences of “the world” upon imperfect men and women. The word wherefore in this verse is His affirmation that it is only by virtue of His compassion that we may ultimately “overcome the world.” How is that compassion made manifest? To these same elders in Kirtland, He said, “I have forgiven you your sins.” The Savior wants to forgive."

Elder Craig A. Cardon of The Seventy, April 2013

061425, Saturday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.3, GMI: 6.7,  Steps (previous day): 7,206

Journal Entry:

Come Follow Me 

D&C 63:23 But unto him that keepeth my commandments I will give the mysteries of my kingdom, and the same shall be in him a well of living water, springing up unto everlasting life.

“Throughout history men have always been looking for the easy way. [Some] have devoted their lives to finding the ‘fountain of youth,’ a miracle water which would bring everlasting life. Today [many] are still seeking…some magic ‘fountain’ that [will] bring forth success, fulfillment, and happiness. But most of this searching is in vain. … It is only this ‘living water,’ the gospel of Jesus Christ, that can and will bring a happy, a successful, and an everlasting life to the children of men. …By living the gospel of Jesus Christ, we develop within ourselves a living spring that will quench eternally our thirst for happiness, peace, and everlasting life."

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, Apostle, April 1995

061325, Friday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 224.4, GMI: 6.7,  Steps (previous day): 8,492

Journal Entry: worked in the garden and helped Cathy get ready for Father's Day this Sunday.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 62:3 Nevertheless, ye are blessed, for the testimony which ye have borne is recorded in heaven for the angels to look upon; and they rejoice over you, and your sins are forgiven you.

"Please understand that there are remarkable blessings in sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. The scriptures speak of joy and peace, forgiveness of sins, protection from temptations, and sustaining power from God…

We respect agency. In this secular world, many will not respond and participate in the gathering of Israel. But many will, and the Lord expects those who have received His gospel to urgently strive to be a beacon-light example that will help others come to God. This allows our brothers and sisters across the earth to enjoy the supernal blessings and ordinances of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ and be safely gathered home."

Elder Quentin L.Cook, Apostle, April 2023

061225, Thursday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.7, GMI: 6.7,  Steps (previous day): 3,831

Journal Entry:

Served in the temple yesterday. We were told that we are now "Temple Workers" assigned as "Endowment  Workers" rather than "Ordinance Workers". There are no more "Ordinance  Workers" so it sounds to me as if nothing has really changed. I suppose there is some administrative purpose to this but...

Come Follow Me 

D&C 62:1 Behold, and hearken, O ye elders of my church, saith the Lord your God, even Jesus Christ, your advocate, who knoweth the weakness of man and how to succor them who are tempted.

"The joyful news for anyone who desires to be rid of the consequences of past poor choices is that the Lord sees weaknesses differently than He does rebellion. Whereas the Lord warns that unrepented rebellion will bring punishment, when the Lord speaks of weaknesses, it is always with mercy."

Elder Richard G. Scott

061125, Wednesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 224.8, GMI: 6.7,  Steps (previous day): 4,033

Journal Entry:

It was good to get back to the Bishops Storehouse. It's a great place to serve others and a reminder to me of how blessed I am. We haven't served for the past two weeks because of dealing with the various issues related to Blake's passing. That, too, was a time for thinking about eternal life and God's love for us.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 61:36 And now, verily I say unto you, and what I say unto one I say unto all, be of good cheer, little children; for I am in your midst, and I have not forsaken you;

"Jesus is the High Priest of Good Things to Come. Knowing that His Crucifixion was just hours away, Jesus said: “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” Today, as our world is frequently polarized and divided, there is a great need for us to preach and practice positivity, optimism, and hope. Despite any challenges in our past, faith always points toward the future, filled with hope, allowing us to fulfill Jesus’s invitation to be of good cheer. Joyfully living the gospel helps us to become disciples of good things to come."

Elder Jonathan S. Schmitt of The Seventy, October 2022

You never know when your turn will come to comply with the admonition of Peter to “be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15).

061025, Tuesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 224.8, GMI: 6.6,  Steps (previous day): 8,957

Journal Entry:

Meredith has gone to London to spend a week with her sister there so I reached out to Jake to see if he wanted to get a breakfast burrito with me at Del Taco. That has blossomed into Jake, Erica, Jill, Fredrick and Cathy and me. So that should be fun. The nice thing about Del Taco is the food is good quality and inexpensive plus they have a nice indoor kids play area.

Later we'll be getting back to the Bishops Storehouse which we've missed for the last two weeks. Looking forward to that.

Kevin is still reeling from Blake's death. I know it's tough but he needs to get on with his life. That's all I'm going to say about that right now but we hope for a better future for him.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 60:13 Behold,... I give unto them a commandment, thus: Thou shalt not idle away thy time, neither shalt thou bury thy talent that it may not be known.

"Because of increased life expectancies and modern timesaving devices, most of us have far more discretionary time than our predecessors. We are accountable for how we use that time. “Thou shalt not idle away thy time” and “Cease to be idle” the Lord commanded the early missionaries and members. “Time flies on wings of lightning,” we sing in a popular hymn; “we cannot call it back. It comes, then passes forward along its onward track. And if we are not mindful, the chance will fade away, for life is quick in passing. ’Tis as a single day.”

Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Apostle

060925, Monday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 224.2, GMI: 6.6,  Steps (previous day): 6,078

Journal Entry:

Got our soft water and and water purification systems serviced for the year. 

I had breakfast with Craig this morning. Cathy decided to let the guys have their time together. We had a nice visit. Craig, my nephew, is more like a younger brother to me. I really enjoyed being with him.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 60:2 But with some I am not well pleased, for they will not open their mouths, but they hide the talent which I have given unto them, because of the fear of man. Wo unto such, for mine anger is kindled against them.

"With so many social media resources and a multitude of more or less useful gadgets at our disposal, sharing the good news of the gospel is easier and the effects more far-reaching than ever before…My dear young friends, perhaps the Lord’s encouragement to “open [your] mouths” might today include “use your hands” to blog and text message the gospel to all the world! But please remember, all at the right time and at the right place."

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, 2nd Counselor, First Presidency, April 2011

060825, Sunday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 221.7, GMI: 6.6,  Steps (previous day): 5,425

Journal Entry:

In our recent trip to Phoenix, we stayed with Becky at her home in Peoria. Kevin had just added a new mattress topper to the bed we were using and it was very comfortable. I had often thought that our bed could be a little more comfortable, partly because Cathy didn't seem to be able to get enough rest. I, too, felt our bed could be more comfortable so I convinced Cathy that we should try the same mattress topper on our bed that Kevin had installed on the bed at Becky's home. So it came yesterday and I put it on our bed and I think it noticeably improved the comfort.

Cathy is still asleep which could be a good sign. Time will tell.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 59:23 But learn that he who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come.

Peace of mind, peace of conscience, and peace of heart are not determined by our ability to avoid trials, sorrow, or heartache. Despite our sincere pleas, not every storm will change course, not every infirmity will be healed, and we may not fully understand every doctrine, principle, or practice taught by prophets, seers, and revelators. Nevertheless, we have been promised peace—with a condition attached.

...[T]he Savior taught that despite the tribulations...we can be of good cheer, we can be of good hope, and we need not fear, because He declared, “In me ye might have peace.”...

...[T]he Savior...said: “Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me...” Learn, listen, and walk—three steps with a promise.

Bishop W. Christopher Waddell, Second Counselor Presiding Bishopric, April 2016

D&C 59:  8 Thou shalt offer a sacrifice unto the Lord thy God in righteousness, even that of a broken heart and a contrite spirit.

 9 And that thou mayest more fully keep thyself unspotted from the world, thou shalt go to the house of prayer and offer up thy sacraments upon my holy day;

060725, Saturday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 224.4,GMI: 6.6,  Steps (previous day): 3,732

Journal Entry:

Enjoyed serving in the temple again yesterday. 

We are trying to get our front garden looking good. I think we are planning on doing some work out there today. It's coming along.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 59:9 And that thou mayest more fully keep thyself unspotted from the world, thou shalt go to the house of prayer and offer up thy sacraments upon my holy day;

10 For verily this is a day appointed unto you to rest from your labors, and to pay thy devotions unto the Most High;

"Thus, on the Sabbath we worship the Father in the name of the Son by participating in ordinances and learning about, receiving, remembering, and renewing covenants. On His holy day, our thoughts, actions, and demeanor are signs we give to God and an indicator of our love for Him.

An additional purpose of the Sabbath is to elevate our vision from the things of the world to the blessings of eternity. Removed during this sacred time from many of the regular routines of our busy lives, we can “look to God and live” by receiving and remembering the great and precious promises whereby we become partakers of the divine nature."

Elder David A. Bednar, Apostle

It is common in our secular world to say that “seeing is believing.” Whatever value this little maxim may have in the mundane affairs of life, it is an alien presence when we turn to the Lord in the dark hour of our extremity. The way of the Lord is best defined by a different maxim: “Believing is seeing.” Faith in the Lord is the premise, not the conclusion. We know He lives; therefore, we trust Him to bless us according to His divine will and wisdom. This childlike confidence in the Lord is known in scripture simply as the “sacrifice” of “a broken heart and a contrite spirit” (D&C 59:8).

Elder Lance B. Wickman of The Seventy, October 2002

060625, Friday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.3,  GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day): 9,464

Journal Entry:

Had an appointment with my spine surgeon, Dr. Kimball, yesterday. He reviewed my xrays and advised me to continue being careful with bending,twisting and lifting but all was basically good for a 79 year old, 6'7" guy.

I was able to walk some and that is good.

Today I'm serving in the temple as a substitute for my friend, Art Sandgren. The church has just recently started using virtual temple recommends for those who want to. There is some confusion about that process with some members. You can't just use your phone to photograph your recommend, you have to go through your bishop and also name sure you have a good photo of yourself in your church account. I mention this because Wednesday we had some confusion at the recommend desk and I'm assigned to soreness some time at the recommend desk today. Might be interesting.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 59:7 Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things.

"Mercies and blessings come in different forms—sometimes as hard things. Yet the Lord said, “Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things.” All things means just that: good things, difficult things—not just some things. He has commanded us to be grateful because He knows being grateful will make us happy. This is another evidence of His love."

Sister Bonnie D. Parkin, former Relief Society General President

"Satan will try to make us believe that our sins are not forgiven because we can remember them. Satan is a liar; he tries to blur our vision and lead us away from the path of repentance and forgiveness. God did not promise that we would not remember our sins. Remembering will help us avoid making the same mistakes again. But if we stay true and faithful, the memory of our sins will be softened over time. This will be part of the needed healing and sanctification process. Alma testified that after he cried out to Jesus for mercy, he could still remember his sins, but the memory of his sins no longer distressed and tortured him, because he knew he had been forgiven."

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Apostle, April 2007

060525, Thursday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 225.9, GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day): 4,331

Journal Entry:

I enjoyed serving in the temple yesterday. 

I need to work on learning to work a couple of systems we have in our home. One is the automated irrigation/sprinkler system and the other is the Ecobee HVAC control system. Hopefully I'll find time to work on those today.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 59:5 Wherefore, I give unto them a commandment, saying thus: Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy might, mind, and strength; and in the name of Jesus Christ thou shalt serve him.

"God the Eternal Father did not give that first great commandment because He needs us to love Him. His power and glory are not diminished should we disregard, deny, or even defile His name. His influence and dominion extend through time and space independent of our acceptance, approval, or admiration.

No, God does not need us to love Him. But oh, how we need to love God! For what we love determines what we seek. What we seek determines what we think and do. What we think and do determines who we are—and who we will become."

"No matter your position in your community or in the Church, God will use you, if you are willing. He will magnify your righteous desires and turn the compassionate actions you sow into a bountiful harvest of goodness."

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Apostle

060425, Wednesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: 223.3, GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day): 5,145

Journal Entry:

As promised, here is a photo of the Colorado River from the Navajo Indian Bridge which is adjacent to US highway 89A in Arizona. 42 Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more.

43 By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins—behold, he will confess them and forsake them.

We got home in good time. Then I went to American Fork Hospital to get my xrays for my visit with Dr. Kimball tomorrow.

It's really good to be home again.

I get to serve in the temple today after the temple being closed for the last few weeks for maintenance. Looking forward to that.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 58:42 Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more.

43 By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins—behold, he will confess them and forsake them.

"We and our relationships can change. Through the Atonement of Christ the Lord, we can put off our selfish natural self and become a child of God, meek, humble, full of faith and appropriate trust. When we repent, when we confess and forsake our sins, the Lord says He remembers them no more. It is not that He forgets; rather, in a remarkable way, it seems He chooses not to remember them, nor need we."

Elder Gerrit W. Gong, Apostle

Commentary on D&C 58:13–18

Edward Partridge is reproved in the revelation for his doubts about Zion’s location, and to his everlasting credit, he repented and worked to build Zion. Edward received other rebukes in the revelations (D&C 64:17), and each time he bore his chastisement with humility and worked to fulfill the Lord’s commands. It is important to remember that Edward and his family had already made considerable sacrifices for the gospel. They took in and supported many of the penniless saints emigrating from New York and Pennsylvania. While assisting these families, members of the Partridge family came down with the measles, which were transmitted from some of the refugees. It was during this trying time that Edward left to travel to Missouri, perhaps heightening his anxiety and leading to the conflict with Joseph over the land. 

Lydia Partridge, Edward’s wife, later remembered, “My eldest daughter was taken down with lung fever, and while she was at the worst, my husband was called by revelation to go with a number of others to Missouri to locate a place for the gathering of the Saints, the unbelievers thought he must be crazy, or he would not go. And I thought myself that I had reason to think my trials had commenced, and so [they] had, but this trial like all others was followed with blessings for our daughter recovered.”[1]

A few days after this revelation was given, Edward wrote in a letter to Lydia, “You know I stand in an important station, and as I am occasionally chastened I sometimes fear my station is above what I can perform to the acceptance of my Heavenly Father. I hope you and I may conduct ourselves as at last to land our souls in the heaven of eternal rest. Pray that I may not fall.”[2] Other members of the missionary expedition to Missouri, most notably Ezra Booth, were disappointed in the land’s appearance and the local settlers’ demeanor. But in contrast to Booth, who left the Church and became a bitter enemy of the Saints, Edward Partridge stood fast in his place, fulfilled his duties, and received his just reward (D&C 124:19, 21).

[1] Joseph Smith Papers, Documents, Vol. 1, p. 330, fn. 458.

[2] Scott H. Partridge, “Edward Partridge in Painesville, Ohio,” BYU Studies 41, no. 1, 64.

060325, Tuesday

Daily Vitals: Weight: unk, GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day): 3,934

Journal Entry:

We had a big day yesterday. Our new tire arrived at Costco at a little afternoon so we packed up and drive over there. They replaced the tire and rotated the tires for us very expeditiously and we set out for Kanab at a little after 3pm. 

We found on the way down to Phoenix that taking highway 89A out of Kanab was spot more scenic than taking 89 through Page. So I was thinking we might take 89A when going back. According to Google, 89A is about the same distance and takes about the same amount of time so we took it coming back and really enjoyed it. 

I took some photos but due to WiFi limitations I couldn’t post them right now but will add a post later today or tomorrow. 

We are staying in a 2 queen bed suite at the Holiday Inn in Kanab and enjoying it immensely. It’s only about 4 hours to home from here so we are not hurrying to get going. 

Come Follow Me 

D&C 58:26 For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward.

27 Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness;

28 For the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. And inasmuch as men do good they shall in nowise lose their reward.

29 But he that doeth not anything until he is commanded, and receiveth a commandment with doubtful heart, and keepeth it with slothfulness, the same is damned.

“Some may think we shouldn’t expect daily guidance from the Spirit because “it is not meet that [God] should command in all things...” This scripture, however, was given to some early missionaries who asked Joseph Smith to obtain revelation they should have received for themselves...

These missionaries...hadn’t yet learned to seek their own direction in personal matters. The Lord called this attitude what it is: slothful...Being spiritually self-reliant is hearing the Lord’s voice through His Spirit for one’s own life.

Alma advised his son to “counsel with the Lord in all thy doings.” To live in this way...is a high privilege.“

Elder Larry Y. Wilson of The Seventy, 

060225, Monday

 Daily Vitals: Weight: unk  GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day): 9,566

Journal Entry

I decided to look online and see if Costco was open yesterday - Sunday - here in the Phoenix area and lo and behold, it is.... They are. I also found that the tire departments are also open so we drove to the nearest Costco and, of course and as I suspected, they didn't have the right tire for our car. But! They ordered one and it's supposed to be here today, possibly by 1200 (noon). So, right now, I'm waiting for a call telling me to come and get it. If that happens we will head out today for home.

We got a few steps in yesterday afternoon before it started raining. And it rained and thundered most of the night but it's sunny now.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 58:3 Ye cannot behold with your natural eyes, for the present time, the design of your God concerning those things which shall come hereafter, and the glory which shall follow after much tribulation.

4 For after much tribulation come the blessings. Wherefore the day cometh that ye shall be crowned with much glory; the hour is not yet, but is nigh at hand.

" A pattern in the scriptures and in life shows that many times the darkest, most dangerous tests immediately precede remarkable events and tremendous growth. “After much tribulation come the blessings.” The children of Israel were trapped against the Red Sea before it was parted. Nephi faced danger, anger from his brothers, and multiple failures before he was able to procure the brass plates. Joseph Smith was overcome by an evil power so strong that it seemed he was doomed to utter destruction. When he was almost ready to sink into despair, he exerted himself to call upon God, and at that very moment he was visited by the Father and the Son. Often investigators face opposition and tribulation as they near baptism. Mothers know that the challenges of labor precede the miracle of birth. Time after time we see marvelous blessings on the heels of great trials."

Elder Paul V. Johnson of The Seventy, April 2011

“Ours is not to judge; ours is a covenantal obligation to care for the poor and the needy, to prepare for their rejoicing when the Messiah shall come again. The Lord’s ‘own way’ includes, first, reliance on self, then on the family ... If one’s family can’t help, the Lord’s ‘own way’ includes the Church organization. The bishop is assisted by priesthood quorums and good sisters of the Relief Society, organized to look ‘to the wants of the poor, searching after objects of charity and … administering to their wants.’ Members of priesthood quorums and groups have a duty to rehabilitate, spiritually and temporally, their erring or unfortunate brethren. While a bishop extends aid to one temporarily out of work, the quorum arranges for his employment until fully self-supporting again. As individual members of the Church, you and I participate in the Lord’s ‘own way’. At least once a month, we fast and pray and contribute generous offerings to funds that enable bishops to disperse aid. This is part of the law of the gospel. Each of us truly can help the poor and the needy, now, and wherever they are. And we, too, will be blessed and protected from apostasy by so doing.”

Source

Russell M. Nelson, "In the Lord’s Own Way," April 1986 General Conference.

060125, Sunday

Daily Vitals: Weight: unk  GMI: 6.7, Steps (previous day): 4,717

Journal Entry

Cathy is not comfortable with undertaking our journey home on a Sunday, as originally planned, with a $50 "new" tire from an unknown, open late Saturday, tire repair shop in Mesa. Can't say as I blame her. We were both amazed to find that our car has no spare tire and, of course, still has no spare tire. So I can easily understand her reluctance. We will go to a local Costco tomorrow and try to get a new tire to match our three remaining Costco tires. Then, hopefully we will be able to get started home.

Today we will just relax and try to enjoy a free day here with Becky and Kevin.

Come Follow Me 

D&C 56:17 Wo unto you poor men, whose hearts are not broken, whose spirits are not contrite, and whose bellies are not satisfied, and whose hands are not stayed from laying hold upon other men’s goods, whose eyes are full of greediness, and who will not labor with your own hands!

18 But blessed are the poor who are pure in heart, whose hearts are broken, and whose spirits are contrite, for they shall see the kingdom of God coming in power and great glory unto their deliverance; for the fatness of the earth shall be theirs.

"I have learned that selfishness has more to do with how we feel about our possessions than how much we have. The poet Wordsworth said, “The world is too much with us; late and soon, / Getting and spending, we lay waste our powers.” A poor man can be selfish and a rich man generous, but a person obsessed only with getting will have a hard time finding peace in this life."

President James E. Faust, Apostle, October 2002

President James E. Faust

Second Counselor in the First Presidency