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  • I never stand alone.

    Alone I stand,
    While all the world around me
    Surrounds me
    And takes me for a fool.
    But I am not
    The first to be regarded
    As weak and simple-hearted
    For choosing to believe
    That He keeps watch over His own.

    CHORUS
    I never stand alone
    When I stand with God
    And I stand with His prophets.
    Wherever I may go,
    When I stand with God
    I never stand alone.

    And so it is
    My heart has been befriended,
    Defended
    By those who’ve gone before.
    Who call to me
    Like distant rolling thunder,
    “You cannot be outnumbered!
    You’re standing with the Lord.”
    And He keeps watch over His own.

    CHORUS

    I stand with Nephi and Moroni,
    With Abinadi, who testified in flames!
    With saints through the ages,
    Stalwart and faithful,
    Leading me, telling me . . .

    CHORUS

    This beautiful song is called “I Never Stand Alone,” and is from the musical From Cumorah’s Hill. It has been on my mind for the last couple days. You may remember I recently wrote about another song from this very musical. I may at some point write about all of them, for they all are glorious.

    This particular song, which cannot be done justice simply by reading the words, is one I have loved since I was a teenager studying the Book of Mormon. I sang this song in front of a large group of youth twice in that year, and it had a huge impact on my testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and of the Book of Mormon.

    I love how the words of this song bring comfort and strength to true believers in Christ, who many times are persecuted and belittled for their beliefs. Living the gospel in word and deed will never be popular in this world, but, as the song says, when I stand with God, I am never outnumbered, and I am never alone.

    There is another message in this song too. It mentions standing with the prophets. Prophets have been testifying of Christ long before He was ever born. They testified of Him after His resurrection, and there are still prophets today who testify of Him, and provide counsel on how to live in accordance with God’s will.

    Though prophets are called of God to bring souls unto Him, they are often shunned, persecuted, and sometimes even killed. The end of this song praises the names of men named Nephi, Moroni and Abinadi.

    These are three prophets in the Book of Mormon who remained unshaken in their faith no matter what hardships they faced.

    Nephi

    Nephi was the son of Lehi, who received a vision from the Lord in 600 B.C. to leave Jerusalem. His life was being threatened by wicked men, and the city was soon to be destroyed due to the wickedness of the people. Nephi prayed for confirmation any time his father received instruction from the Lord, and he obeyed faithfully.

    He was the youngest of four brothers. One of his brothers, Sam, stood by him always, but his oldest brothers, Laman and Lemuel, constantly murmured and complained. They did not believe that their father was a prophet. They hated their younger brother for his righteousness, his faith, and for his relationship with God.

    Early on in their journey in the wilderness, Lehi, on commandment from the Lord, asked his sons to go back to Jerusalem to get the Plates of Brass. A wicked man named Laban was in possession of these plates. This was a very dangerous endeavor. Nephi, however, never complained, and even attempted, without hesitation, to get the plates on three different occasions. He relied on the Lord to deliver him from Laban, and because of his faith, he was able to obtain the record.

    Many times Laman and Lemuel tried to kill Nephi, one instance being after they lost their earthly wealth the second time they tried to get the plates. But no matter what his brothers said or did in hatred and bitterness, Nephi was always courageous. He always obeyed the Lord. He always forgave his brothers and bade them follow the Lord too, regardless of their many unrighteous acts.

    When I think that I can’t do something, I think of Nephi’s words:

    “I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them” (1 Nephi 3:7).

    Abinadi

    About 440 years after Lehi led his family out of Jerusalem, a man named Abinadi was called to be a prophet and preach repentance to a wicked people, called the Nephites, and their wicked king, Noah. He went among the people warning them that if they did not repent, the Lord would allow their enemies to bring them into bondage. The people were angry and tried to take his life, but the Lord delivered him out of their hands.

    Even after that near-death experience, Abinadi willingly returned to the wicked people two years later to cry repentance again, this time prophesying the death of their king and the destruction of the people if they did not repent. He was arrested and soon thereafter taken before King Noah.

    King Noah was angry with Abinadi’s bold declarations regarding the wickedness of the king’s priests and their false teachings, and commanded that he be slain.

    Abinadi then shone with the power of God and commanded the guards, “Touch me not, for God shall smite you if ye lay your hands upon me, for I have not delivered the message which the Lord sent me to deliver. … I must fulfil the commandments wherewith God has commanded me” (Mosiah 13:3).

    He had the Spirit of the Lord with him as he finished the message he was sent to deliver. Abinadi said that once he gave this message, it did not matter what would happen to him.

    At the conclusion of his testimony where he prophesied of the coming of Jesus Christ, King Noah demanded that Abinadi be put to death. A young man, named Alma, one of the king’s priests, pleaded for his life. This man named Alma would become a worthy vessel to forward the work of the Lord among the people.

    Three days after Alma spoke up and was cast out, King Noah demanded that Abinadi take back his words or be put to death. He refused.

    Abinadi suffered death by fire, being put to death because “he would not deny the commandments of God, having sealed the truth of his words by his death” (Mosiah 17:20).

    I believe that any prophet of God that ever lived would have been willing to give his life to accomplish the will of God in proclaiming the truth. Joseph Smith was one of those prophets.

    Do I have the courage to do what Abinadi did? I am not a prophet, but I am a disciple of Christ. I know that I want to do God’s will, and that I should not be afraid to do so. There is no worldly punishment that could stop me from following my Savior.

    Moroni

    Moroni was the last prophet in the Book of Mormon. About 400 years after Christ’s resurrection and visit to the Americas, Moroni’s people, the Nephites, were being obliterated from off the face of the earth. He saw his father, Mormon, die in battle. That left him the last righteous Nephite, and person, in the land.

    His life was in much danger because the Lamanites put to death any Nephite who would not deny the Christ. Moroni said, “And I, Moroni, will not deny the Christ; wherefore, I wander whithersoever I can for the safety of mine own life” (Moroni 1:3).

    As Moroni hid from the carnage going on amongst the Nephites and Lamanites, he wrote his testimony in hopes that it would someday help the descendants of the Lamanites.

    What a Christ-like person he must have been to write to help the souls of his enemies. Moroni wrote so many beautiful words about how the church of Christ should be operated, how to treat others as God would want us to, how to gain charity, which is the pure love of Christ, how to discern good from evil, and how we all have gifts given to us from God.

    The most life-changing message that Moroni left for all of us, is this:

    “Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts.

    And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.

    And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things” (M
    oroni 10:3-5    ).

    Moroni stood with God and with the prophets, as he declared that the words written in the Book of Mormon are true. He asked us to remember God’s mercy, and to ask Him with sincerity if the words in the Book of Mormon are in fact true. He promised that those who pray with real intent and faith in Christ, will feel the Holy Ghost manifest of its divinity.

    These are just three examples of prophets in the Book of Mormon who were courageous, stalwart, faithful, and obedient. Though often they stood without human allies, they were never alone because they stood with God.

    I know that as we follow the examples of these worthy men, and valiantly do God’s will, that we will be blessed, that we can endure all things that come our way. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love us more than we could ever fathom, and they are right there beside us. Keep the faith, my friends.

  • Washington, D.C., I love you.

    Jad, Kamren and I went to Washington, D.C. this past Friday through Sunday. It was such a wonderful vacation for us. It was Jad’s first time ever being in D.C. and I hadn’t been there for many years.

    Throughout our time there, my mind flooded with memories of my childhood. When I looked at the Washington Memorial, I thought of how I had never gone up it because my dad is afraid of heights.

    When I looked up at Abraham Lincoln, he was just as big as I remembered. 

    When we went to the Smithsonians, I remembered how much I used to love looking at the gemstones at the Museum of Natural History, and how entrancing Dorothy’s ruby slippers were, and still are, to me. I remembered the airplanes hanging from the ceiling just like it was yesterday, and still feel giddy as a school girl when I see the First Ladies’ ball gowns. I also felt the same special feeling seeing the sunstone from the Nauvoo Temple.

    As I reminisced, Jad experienced D.C. for the first time in all its wonderment. He was in awe of the ornate architecture everywhere we went. He fell in love with the Capitol, and felt right at home on the green grass covering the mall.

    We both especially loved the architecture of the Library of Congress. We could have stayed there forever admiring every ceiling, every pillar, every wall engraving, every quote, every color palette.

    Because Jad and I had never been to D.C. together, everything felt new and fresh and adventurous.

    We learned how to read a Metro map and took the Metro.

    We only actually rode the metro once, and loved walking many miles around a city so big, loud and busy, and yet so peaceful.

    As we walked, we felt an inner reverence as we reflected on the many freedoms we are able to enjoy in this great land. Regardless of hardships that occur in our country, we are still so blessed and proud to be Americans.

    We really enjoyed visiting some of the monuments on our first night there. We took a walking tour and learned so much from our tour guide. I loved seeing monuments I had grown up loving, and also visiting some I had never seen before.

    We really enjoyed the good food D.C. had to offer too.On my birthday, we enjoyed the best breakfast we had ever had in our lives, at a restaurant called Founding Farmers.

     Beignets with raspberry, caramel and chocolate dipping sauces.
    Egg cream and sparkling passion fruit juice. Egg creams are to die for, by the way.

    Jad got chicken and waffles, with gravy, and the best scrambled eggs in the world.

    I got heaven on a plate. French toast sticks with strawberries and whipped cream, all from scratch.

    Did I mention the french toast was stuffed with vanilla cream??
    Our experiences in D.C. were made so much sweeter by sharing them with our beloved Kamren.

    Turning 30 in Washington, D.C. is something I will never forget.
    The day after my birthday we would fly home to Mebane, but not until after an unforgettable day.
    It started by attending church. The building was like none I had ever seen before. It was beautiful, and the people in the congregation were diverse and unique. I felt honored to participate in an instant choir number.

    Upon leaving church, we prepared to head just 15 minutes outside of D.C. Though our time had been fulfilling in every way, we longed to go to one more place – a special place in Kensington, Maryland.
    Can you see it in this picture? Look hard.

    I will give you a hint. Here is Kamren next to a model of it.
    That is a model of the LDS Washington D.C. Temple. We would soon walk on the grounds and view it in all its majesty. 
    First, though, we spent time in the Temple Visitors’ Center, a place for all to learn more about the LDS faith, about temples, and about Jesus Christ.
    We started out our visit in such a spiritual way. We entered a beautiful theater, relaxed in the lovely burgundy seats, and watched a movie about the life of Joseph Smith.
    Jad and I had both seen it before, but we drank in every minute of the prophet’s life with the utmost respect and love. Tears streamed down our faces as the movie ended. The Spirit was strong.
    We then walked around the center, and enjoyed all it had to offer. 
    Videos of fellow LDS members, talking about their lives and faith.
    Videos of missionaries telling their stories, videos about family, educational presentations teaching about the gospel through the words of the Book of Mormon, and so much more.
    I loved watching videos of the LDS humanitarian efforts around the world. 
    The wall of prophets was so beautiful. Prophets from the Bible and Book of Mormon were portrayed, ending with the first prophet of this dispensation, Joseph Smith.
    Thought-provoking quotes adorned the walls. This one is from our prophet, Thomas S. Monson. It was his birthday wish a few years ago.

    For me, the most wonderful part of the visitors’ center is the Christus. There are benches where you can sit down and listen to Christ speaking His word directly to you. You can feel His love surround you.
     
     This is a picture of us outside the Visitors’ center with the magnificent temple behind us. My favorite part of our D.C. trip would be walking around this sacred house of of God.

    We were truly so happy to be there.

    The grounds are so lovely.

    This is the Lord’s house. It is a sacred place to feel a bit of heaven on earth, to feel peace in a wicked world, to further the kingdom of God. 
    I love the gold doors adorning the temple.

    Kamren loved crawling in the soft grass.

    Being at the temple brought back so many memories of my youth. This is the temple I always went to growing up. It was a wonderful experience to be there with my son and my husband.

    This is one of the most beautiful buildings I have ever seen. I had forgotten just how glorious it really is.

    Because of temples, families can be together forever. I know this is true.

    We left the temple to go to the airport, but the feelings we had there lingered with us as we drove.  

    I really think this was one of the most wonderful vacations I have taken in a long time. Old memories, new memories, a renewed bond with my family, and an enhanced faith in my country and in my God.

  • Sabbath Day Light: I know that God is real. I will never deny it.

    Church this Sunday was once again amazing. I was so happy to have a couple of my friends attend with us to support me as I sang, and to share in our love of our new building. I was also able to hear a friend, who recently began coming back to church, sing in church, which I felt very honored and blessed to witness. I also loved the lessons I learned from speakers and teachers.

    Just like last week, the Spirit was so strong. It enveloped me like a warm hug. During one point in our Sacrament Meeting the Spirit burned a fire in my heart, testifying to me of ultimate truth.
    This moment occurred when a group of people I love – a good friend, and three youth who I admire for their strong testimonies – got up and sang to the congregation. Before they sang, they took turns narrating a story and scripture to preface the song’s tender subject. Here are the words to the song.

    “The Power of God“
    From Cumorah’s Hill
    Steven Kapp Perry

    Listen to the wind blow,
    Lonely as a sigh.
    Nothing overhead but empty sky.
    Look up at starlight
    On a dark night;
    Are we all alone,
    An island in space?
    Or is there a plan
    Where I have a place?
    Could it be that heaven
    Is man’s imagining,
    Reaching out for hope in childish dreams?
    Stories so old then,
    We’ve outgrown them?
    Has God gone away
    Or hidden His face?
    Have miracles ceased to be?

    CHORUS: But the power of God is plain to see,
    There are wonders on every hand
    To those who will see through eyes of faith,
    Beyond the mind of man.
    For how could we hope
    To see His face,
    Who never could see
    His hand?

    Some may see a rainbow
    As nothing more than light.
    Others see a promise and a sign.
    Everyday wonders
    Without number
    Are here all around
    And wait to be found
    By those who have eyes to see.

    CHORUS (repeat)

    Listen to the wind blow,
    Then listen once again.

    Tears streamed down my face as I listened to this choir of beautiful voices. Their voices mesmerized, their countenances shone, their faith encompassed the entire chapel.

    I felt without a shadow of a doubt, not only that they believed what they were singing, not only that I also believed what they were singing, but that the words to the song were absolutely true.

    The scripture story that the youth read from before singing was in the Book of Mormon in Alma Chapter 30.

    The portion the group read was:

    “And then Alma said unto [Korihor], Believest thou that there is a God? And he answered, Nay (37, 38).

    And now, what evidence have ye that there is no God, or that Christ cometh not? I say unto you that ye have none, save it be your word only (40)…

    I say until you, I know there is a God, and also that Christ shall come…yea and all things denote there is a God” (39, 44).

    There are so many people who do not believe in God, and it shocks and saddens me.  Some do not believe because of scientific studies that say the earth is millions of years old, rather than only a few thousand. Some do not believe because they have never seen God, and nobody can prove to them 100% that there is a God. Some maybe used to believe, but no longer do because of hardships they have endured, and cannot see how God would allow such suffering to occur. Finally, there are some who do not believe in God and Jesus Christ because they have never heard about them.

    Some things I have learned through study and prayer are:

    1. Faith precedes the miracle. We will not receive a witness of truth until after the trial of our faith.
    2. God has not revealed all knowledge yet, and we will know someday if we remain faithful. When Christ comes again, he will reveal all things.
    3. We each have been given our freedom to choose God. If it were incredibly obvious that God existed and that we should follow Him, then there would be no need for faith, and no ability to grow and learn.
    4. Pain and suffering are gifts to us, as they give us the opportunity to humble ourselves, turn to the Lord for help, learn patience, realize our will is not always God’s will, open our perspective to the eternities,  help us appreciate our prosperous times more, and strengthen our faith.
    5. All people who have lived and who ever will live will have the opportunity to know of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Nobody will be lost just because they didn’t know God. There is work being done now in temples, and will continue when Christ comes again, to ensure that all people have the chance to choose God if they desire Him.

    The beautiful song that my friends sang helps us see God’s hand in all things. He is the divine creator. The things we have on this earth, the small things, the beautiful things, all things, come from Him. We cannot look, smell, touch, or hear without witnessing God’s love for us.

  • Sabbath Day Light: I love God and His children. That includes you.

    There are so many things I could write about today. The Spirit at church was so strong and thick, you could swim in it. From thinking about my purpose to fasting today, to the beautiful testimonies borne by other faithful Saints, to discussing moral courage in Sunday School, to talking about the importance of education, both temporally and spiritually, my heart is full.

    I truly left church happy today. I am filled with God’s love for me. I am also filled with love for God’s children, my brothers and sisters.

    I am filled with God’s love for me and His children because…

    1. He has provided the people of the Hillsborough/Mebane area with a sunny, beautiful new building to worship in. I have seen a new brightness in our congregation that I hope will never dim.

    2. The Holy Ghost was visibly present in our meetings to testify of truth and to edify our souls.

    3. The Sacrament was administered to us, as it is every week, to allow us to renew our baptismal covenants.
    3. God has revealed, through the words of prophets, scriptures to lead us and guide us on the straight and narrow path back to Him. Studying them each week in Sunday School helps me stay on that path.
    4. The people in my congregation are all different. They lead different lives, have different struggles and different joys. They have some things in common, though. They have hope and they have faith, because they know they are children of God and that Jesus Christ is their Savior. I felt, and always feel, that knowledge radiate through the countenances of their faces, and light up the whole building.

    I am filled with my own love for my brothers and sisters because…

    1. I observed how hard they work to fulfill their church responsibilities, simply because they love the Lord.

    2. I loved hearing them bear their individual testimonies and share their personal experiences that have brought them closer to Christ. I was truly touched by all who shared.
    3. I received help with my children today as different members played with them.
    4. I felt appreciation for my testimony as people approached me, thanking me for sharing it.
    5. I felt loved as people said hello to me and smiled at me and asked me how I was doing.
    6. I had the blessing of meeting some new individuals, who I am excited to get to know.
    7. I smiled at my baby being cute, and smiled at the people who smiled at him being cute.
    9. I asked how I could help some of my fellow sisters, with a heart willing to serve.
    10. I listened to a sister play a song on the piano, and even though she was nervous and made some mistakes, I felt love and appreciation for her for having the courage and desire to share her talents.
    11. I happily accepted an assignment to substitute a class.
    12. I, without a second thought, offered the use of some of my belongings to a friend.

    What I think is so amazing, is that we can feel love for God and for others because of things that touch us, things we see, things we experience, things we study, things others do for us, and also things we do for others.

    I am so grateful for this love I feel in my heart right now. I have realized (or re-realized) today, that being judgmental, gossiping, and holding a grudge never bring happiness and light. They never improve or help or uplift. Only by loving, even when it is hard or inconvenient, will change our hearts. It will change the world.

  • Sabbath Day Light: There is music in me

    I am a person who loves music. As I think about it, it has always been such a huge part of my life, and the memories I have make me smile.

    My love of music came from my Nana and Granddad.


    My Granddad was an amazingly talented pianist and organist. He had a gift not many people have, and used it for so much good. He was the organist in our church congregation for as long as I can remember. He also taught me, my siblings, and many others piano lessons. I remember him always making sure I lifted my wrists, and he wouldn’t check off a song unless I played it perfectly. I treasure seeing his handwriting in music books I still have. It is a way to always have a part of him with me.

    My Nana has one of the most beautiful, operatic voices, a voice that you would imagine a chorus of birds accompanying. I grew up just loving her voice, and wanting to sing just like her. I think if Nana could sing instead of talk, she probably would. My whole life, she and I have had a special song (from Guys and Dolls), which goes, “I love you, a bushel and a peck, a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck, hug around the neck, and a barrel in a heap, barrel in a heap, and I’m talkin’ in my sleep about you.” I can hear her singing it right now. Even at my age, she will either sing it to me, or we will take turns saying each phrase to each other.

    Disney songs made childhood so much more fun.


    When I was a kid, my siblings and I were obsessed with Disney movies. I recall watching at least one a day during the summers. We loved singing the songs. One of my favorite activities was singing Disney songs, especially from Sleeping Beauty, into a running fan. It would make my voice project and sound crackly. We all thought it was hilarious.

    Car trips were way more fun with these singers.

    I remember growing up that my mom had certain cassette tapes she played over and over. The artists I remember the most were Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Michael Bolton, Barry Manilow, and Rick Astley.

    I think my favorite songs were “I Will Always Love You,” “Copacabana,” and “Never Gonna Give You Up.” It’s hard to pick, though, because I just loved listening to these artists on the way to the pool, Kmart, or the library.

    The Backstreet Boys brought teenage girls together.


    Anyone remember the age of boy bands? I remember for several of my preteen and teenage years being totally obsessed with the Backstreet Boys. My friends loved them; my mom even loved them.

    Their songs were so catchy and fun to sing and dance to.

    “Backstreet’s back, all right!” “Tell me why!” “And that makes you larger than life!”

    They were also really cute, had awesome music videos, and sold awesome merchandise. I remember getting a Brian patch for my backpack, and a Brian poster for my wall, and probably other Brian stuff. Can you tell I liked Brian?

    Singing, listening to and playing musicals was my life.


    When I was a teenager, I was obsessed with musicals. I think this obsession started in 8th grade, when my drama class read and listened to The Phantom of the Opera (which I still think is the best musical ever). I remember I had to read Christine’s lyrics to “The Point of No Return.” Yeah, my cheeks were pretty red as I realized what the song was about.

    After getting the Phantom CD for my birthday that year, I listened to it and listened to it, and sang it, and listened to it. I grew to really love it, which opened my appetite for more musicals.

    I started to ask for music books of musicals so I could play them on the piano, and sing along, of course. Some of my favorites were Cats, Jekyll & Hyde, The Scarlet Pimpernel, and Les Miserables.

    I have many memories of singing this music and others, while I played my CDs in my room. I would sing while putting on my make up and doing my hair. I always thought if my door was closed, nobody could hear me – or maybe I just didn’t care.

    I had the time of my life in high school when I got to play Hodel from Fiddler on the Roof my Sophomore year, and Catherine from Pippin my Senior year.

    My love of musicals followed me to college and beyond. Last year I was able to act in a musical with my son, Casey, and many other members of my church in the Durham/Chapel Hill areas. I had the time of my life, and I remembered how much I love acting in musicals.

    My love of music helped me meet my husband.


    In the spring of 2009, I was dating a Marine who was deployed in Iraq. Despite my relationship status, I still went to the young single adult dances put on each month by my church. I didn’t go to meet men, but simply to satisfy my craving to dance to loud, upbeat music. Had I not gone to the dances that April and May, I never would have met or dated my husband since he lived two hours away. Thank you, love of music and dancing.

    Primary songs are better when you are an adult.


    As a child in the LDS church, I grew up learning and singing many songs about prayer, Jesus Christ, gratitude, prophets, and love. Some of the songs were just for fun, and were about apricot trees or snowmen.

    My favorite Primary songs as a child were A Child’s Prayer and My Heavenly Father Loves Me.

    I always loved going to church so I could sing these songs. As an adult, I have had the opportunity to teach these same songs to new generations of children. From teaching the songs, and also having been a teacher seeing the kids learn, sing, and love them, I have learned to love the Primary songs even more.

    They have a new significance to my life, and I feel the presence of the Holy Ghost more strongly when singing them than ever before. I often sing Primary songs to my children, my favorites being I am a Child of God, I Feel My Savior’s Love, Families Can Be Together Forever, and I Love to See the Temple.


    Singing is one of the best ways to feel the Spirit.

    I am one of those people that loves singing in church choir, singing solos in church, and singing the hymns loudly and joyfully. People often tell me they were glad they sat near me because I make it easier to sing the songs.

    More than once in my adult life I have been the chorister of our church congregation, and also have thoughtfully and prayerfully chosen the hymns to be sung each Sunday.

    Something I have realized is that singing is a wonderful way to praise and show love to our Savior and our Heavenly Father. Hymns help us really internalize gospel principles as well, such as the atonement of Jesus Christ and loving one another.

    The best thing about hymns is, if they are sung with real intent, they can help you feel the Spirit, and testify to you of the truthfulness of many things.

    The reason I thought to blog about music in my life was because of the strong spirit I felt at church this Sunday, the first Sunday in our beautiful new building in Mebane. There were many gorgeous musical numbers, and all brought tears to my eyes, including the choir number I participated in, entitled Be Still.


    I am so grateful that music exists. It can be fun, soothing, inspiring, powerful, uplifting. It is such a magnificent form of expression. It touches the mind, the heart, and the spirit.

  • Sabbath Day Light: A talking donkey spoke to me

    This week in Sunday School, we discussed the story of Balaam, a prophet whom King Balak enticed many times to curse the Israelites.

    You can read a full description of the story here. I found it very interesting and enlightening.

    There are so many lessons to be learned from it, such as the need to obey God’s commandments with exactness , to not be tempted by worldly treasures, and to accept and follow answers to prayer, instead of trying to get God to change His will.

    The point that moved me the most, though, came  from the encounter with Balaam and his donkey, who he thought was mocking him by not proceeding forth on their journey, but rather stopping, or turning, or falling down. Balaam beat his donkey, and after the donkey was allowed by God to speak, realized that the donkey in fact was saving him from death.

    Balaam and his donkey

    I thought about how as people we often are quick to get angry and quick to be offended. Often when we choose to feel this way, we lash out irrationally, usually without knowing all the facts.

    Most of the time, when someone seemingly hurts us, it isn’t intentional. Most people aren’t out to hurt us or bring us down. Sometimes people just have bad days, fumble something they say, forget a promise they have made, or are just speaking or doing what they usually do, not realizing it may not be the best way to communicate.

    Sometimes we just don’t have all the facts. We only see one piece of the puzzle, and rather than seek out the rest of pieces, we make assumptions – assumptions which lead to bitterness, lashing out, awkwardness, or gossip.

    Then there are times when people really are out to hurt us. It could be a stranger, a peer, or even someone we love.
    In those cases, we really have no choice but to be angry and offended, right? We aren’t in the wrong if we lash out, either physically, verbally, or nonverbally because that person deserves it, correct? Isn’t that just justice?

    That is the common response, but in reality, anger is a CHOICE.

    A leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS church), Elder Lynn G. Robbins, said: 

    “A cunning part
    of his [Satan’s] strategy is to dissociate anger from agency, making us believe
    that we are victims of an emotion that we cannot control. We hear, ‘I lost my
    temper.’ Losing one’s temper is an interesting choice of words that has become
    a widely used idiom. To ‘lose something’ implies ‘not meaning to,’
    ‘accidental,’ ‘involuntary,’ ‘not responsible’—careless perhaps but ‘not
    responsible.’

    “‘He made me
    mad.’ This is another phrase we hear, also implying lack of control or agency.
    This is a myth that must be debunked. No one makes us mad. Others don’t make us
    angry. There is no force involved. Becoming angry is a conscious choice, a
    decision; therefore, we can make the choice not to become angry. We choose! To those who say,
    ‘But I can’t help myself,’ author William Wilbanks responds, ‘Nonsense.’

    “‘Aggression, …
    suppressing the anger, talking about it, screaming and yelling,’ are all
    learned strategies in dealing with anger. ‘We choose the one that has proved
    effective for us in the past. Ever notice how seldom we lose control when
    frustrated by our boss, but how often we do when annoyed by friends or family?’ (‘The New
    Obscenity,’ Reader’s Digest, Dec. 1988, 24; italics added)” (in Conference
    Report, Apr. 1998, 105; or Ensign, May 1998, 80).

    If anger is a choice, why do we choose it? Does it solve anything?

    The living prophet of the LDS church, Thomas S.
    Monson said, “Anger does not solve anything; it
    builds nothing. To be angry is to yield to the influence of Satan. No one can
    make us angry. It is our choice. If we desire to have a proper spirit with us
    at all times, we must choose to refrain from becoming angry. I testify that
    such is possible.”

    Looking at the scriptures, Jesus Christ taught,
    “Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
    “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you. …
    “For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
    “And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
    “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect” (Matthew 5:43–44, 46–48).
    It is interesting that just before commanding us to be perfect, the Lord counsels us to love our neighbors and our enemies. This is not easy, but as President Monson said, it is possible.
    Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the LDS church, declared, “One of the greatest indicators of our own spiritual maturity is revealed in how we respond to the weaknesses, the inexperience, and the potentially offensive actions of others. A thing, an event, or an expression may be offensive, but you and I can choose not to be offended…”
    Are we mature people, especially in things of the Spirit? I personally know I need to take my own advice, as well as the counsel of these great men, especially my Savior.
    Let’s try to take more breaths, think more rationally, give more benefits of the doubt, seek more clarification, and love more dearly. Let us also try harder not to be the one causing the hurt, whether intentionally or unintentionally. All we have to do is try to see perspectives outside our own.
    Join with me! Let’s be more spiritually mature together. Let’s choose the better part.
    Thank you, talking donkey, for speaking to me.

  • Sabbath Day Light: Women of faith united

    This Sunday, as everyone knows, was Mother’s Day. The whole day was wonderful, and during every minute of church, the Spirit was there so strongly.  In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we believe in the divine nature of men and women. During church, it really hit me that women really do have special characteristics and qualities that help them be good mothers, loyal servants of Christ, and devoted friends, to name just a few.

    I love women, and I love being a woman. Womanhood should be celebrated and embraced. We are all so special and unique, and have been given special God-given gifts individually, and collectively, as women.

    In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, there is an organization called the Relief Society, of which I, and all women in my church, ages 18 and up, belong. It is actually the oldest and largest women’s organization in the world, being organized in 1842.

    If you would to read the beautiful Relief Society declaration, please click here.

    Each Sunday, during the third hour of church, the women of the Relief Society meet together and are spiritually fed. We are taught and participate in lessons that help us strengthen our faith in Jesus Christ, and find ways to strengthen our homes and families. We also meet about once a month to have an activity where we learn new skills and bond with each other as sisters.

    Not only do the Relief Society sisters meet together often, but we also strive to continuously help each other. In our church, we are very service-oriented. In each congregation, there are a couple sisters who communicate with women who currently have specific needs, and then coordinate with the rest of us to help them. It could be anything from a visit, to babysitting, to a meal.

    Most of we women in the Relief Society are also assigned specific other women to keep in contact with, teach spiritual lessons to, serve, and befriend. By doing this, what we call visiting teaching, we are making sure that all women in our congregation, and whole church, feel loved, cared for, and spiritually nourished outside of church.

    This Sunday during our Relief Society meeting, we actually discussed how to be better visiting teachers. It’s not about checking off that you made contact with someone each month. It’s so much more than that. It is about friendship, service, and Christ-like love. Many women in our congregation spoke of specific experiences where they felt so loved by their visiting teachers. It has invigorated my desire to show more love and help to all the women I currently visit teach, and to those I will in the future.

    I feel so blessed to be a part of such a large and long-lasting organization, whose purpose is to help ourselves and others be the best women, sisters, mothers, wives, and daughters of God we can be.

    We of the Relief Society hold our hands out to each woman in the world to be a part of us. All you have to do is come, and there will be women there to call you their sister. The Lord smiles down on those who love Him – and those who love Him, love their fellow man… and woman.

    If you are interested in learning more about my church and the Relief Society program, you can input your address here to find a congregation location and time. I promise you will be welcomed with open arms.

  • Sabbath Day Light: I am related to Gladys Knight

    Last night, as well as tonight, I have had the wonderful privilege to attend “One Voice,” a presentation of music and testimony, sung by Saints Unified Voices gospel choir, directed by Gladys Knight. (To learn more about the choir, click here.)

    One Voice

    The music was absolutely amazing. Every member of the choir, every member of the live band, as well as Sister Knight herself, has glorious God-given talent. Many cultures were embraced in the music, and every song bore testimony of the divinity of Jesus Christ and our necessity to follow Him.

    My favorite song from the event spoke of this very topic. It is so easy to tell Jesus we will follow Him tomorrow, but tomorrow could be too late. We should choose to follow Christ today.

    As I heard the music, I felt alive. I felt invigorated. I felt the Spirit of the Lord in a new way. I found myself smiling, clapping, standing, and rejoicing in my Savior as I, and a thousand others, saw and heard the testimonies of people who love Christ with all their souls. The Spirit radiated out of their voices, faces, and whole bodies.

    Now, as beautiful and magnificent as the music was, I must say that the most uplifting part of both evenings for me was listening to several individuals share their stories and testimonies of Jesus Christ and His gospel.

    The first man who spoke said that he was related to Gladys Knight. He was a white man, making the idea of blood relation humorous. Then he profoundly stated that Gladys is a child of God. He too is a child of God. That means Gladys is his sister. That means Gladys is my sister too.

    The theme of being children of God was reiterated throughout the presentation. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe that each and every person on the earth from Adam and Eve until now is a literal spirit son or daughter of Heavenly Father. We believe that we lived with God before we came to earth, and that we chose to come here and follow His great Plan of Happiness. You can read more about this plan here.

    Gladys’ husband, and Gladys herself, also stood and told their stories, from how they were raised, how they met each other, and how they each individually came to join the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – the church they, and millions around the world, believe is the restored church of Jesus Christ. You can read more about the restoration of the gospel here.

    They pled with the audience to open their hearts to the possibility of Joseph Smith really being a prophet, of the Book of Mormon really being true, of the priesthood really being restored. Gladys’ husband, William McDowell, asked us to follow the promise at the end of the Book of Mormon, which states:

     3 Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts.
     4 And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.
     5 And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things. (Moroni 10:3-5)
    Gladys gave an important point, that she isn’t trying to sell anything, or force anyone to do anything. It is a person’s choice to open their hearts to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She did, however, give a strong testimony of her belief in the truthfulness of the faith she holds so dear.
    I loved hearing Gladys’ majestic voice. Towards the end of the presentation, she and the choir sang one of the children’s hymns from our church, entitled I am a Child of God. It is one of my favorite hymns too, and I often sing it to my children.
    If you would like to hear the song, here is a beautiful rendition in many different languages sung by women of our church.

    Gladys Knight believes that God gave her the gift of song to do His will, to feed His sheep, to tell the world that Jesus Christ lives. I believe that she is right, as I believe that all of us is given talents, where if we use them appropriately, we can bring peace to the world through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

    I am grateful for Gladys and her choir’s courage as they stand for what they believe, embrace cultural differences, and bring light and hope to all wishing to find it.

    He lives!

  • Sabbath Day Light: Every Day like Easter Sunday

    This past Sunday was so wonderful. It was Easter Sunday, so my husband and I made a special effort with our kids to focus on the Savior. We also got to hear beautiful music and messages in church about Christ’s atonement and resurrection. Then, we were able to spend time that evening with the people we love most – our family. It was one of those days you wish you could have every day.

    As I think about it, though, can’t every day be like Easter Sunday? If I am to call myself a true disciple of Jesus Christ, mustn’t I remember Him every day? Shouldn’t I bear witness of Him at all times? Can’t I feel the Spirit testify to me of the divinity of Christ at any given moment?

    I think that we feel more comfortable talking about Jesus around Christmas-time or Easter-time because people expect Christians to talk about Him during those times. However, as the Apostle Paul says, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek (Romans 1:16).”

    In the Book of Mormon, the prophet Nephi speaks of his people, the Nephites, and how they live. He says, “And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins (2Nephi 25:26).”

    How can we better show our devotion to Christ – to talk of Him and to rejoice in Him? I have a few suggestions:

    1. Listen to and sing spiritual songs of praise and love to the Lord.

    I know for me, when I sing or hear hymns at church, at home, or in the car, I always feel warm and joyful. I feel the Holy Ghost touching my heart. I especially love to hear my children sing hymns. I always have to wipe tears from my eyes when I hear their sweet voices.

    Colossians 3:16 – Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.


    Doctrine and Covenants 25:12 – For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads.

    2. Read the scriptures daily and ponder their meaning in your life.

    My husband and I read from the Book of Mormon each night with our children. Then before we go to bed, he and I will listen to recent General Conference talks or watch Bible videos about Christ’s teachings. Individually, my husband and I also strive to study the word of God.

    1 Nephi 19:23 – …I did liken all scriptures unto us, that it might be for our profit and learning.


    2 Nephi 32:3 – …Wherefore, I said unto you, feast upon the words of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do.


    Psalms 119:105 – Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.





    **If you would like to learn more about The Book of Mormon, click here.

    3. Pray to Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ daily, always having a prayer in your heart.

    When you pray, you are showing that you love God, that you wish to communicate with Him, that you believe that He hears and answers your prayers, that you have faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ. We can pray for many things, such as for safety for our family, comfort, help, answers, and blessings. This shows that we trust that God loves us and wishes to bless us. We should also focus on thanking God for all the blessings we have and will receive. In all these forms of praying, we can come closer to our Father in Heaven, as well as our Savior.

    I love praying, and pray many times a day. I strive to say sincere prayers, and to really remember who I am talking to.

    1 Thessalonians 5: 17-18 –  Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.


    Psalms 55:17 – Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.

    4. Observe the world around you and see God’s hand in all things.

    When I smell a flower, look into my children’s eyes, drive through the mountains, gaze at a rainbow, accomplish something I didn’t think I could, I feel God’s presence near.

    One of my favorite children’s hymns is called My Heavenly Father Loves Me. Here are the words:.

    Whenever I hear the song of a bird
    Or look at the blue, blue sky,
    Whenever I feel the rain on my face
    Or the wind as it rushes by,
    Whenever I touch a velvet rose
    Or walk by our lilac tree,
    I’m glad that I live in this beautiful world
    Heav’nly Father created for me.


     He gave me my eyes that I might see
    The color of butterfly wings.
    He gave me my ears that I might hear
    The magical sound of things.
    He gave me my life, my mind, my heart:
    I thank him rev’rently
    For all his creations, of which I’m a part.
    Yes, I know Heav’nly Father loves me.

    I know that if we can see God’s hand in all things, we will talk of God more, and we will feel His love more abundantly.

    Alma 30:44  …The scriptures are laid before thee, yea, and all things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator.


    5.  Love and serve others.

    When we help other people, whether it be in our homes, in our churches, or in our communities, we learn to be a little more selfless, a little more kind, a little more compassionate, a little more like Christ.

    As we love our neighbors, we can help them feel God’s love for them. I am always happier and feel more fulfilled when I am helping someone else.

    President Dieter F. Uchtdorf,  Second Counselor in the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said, “As we extend our hands and hearts toward others in Christlike love, something wonderful happens to us. Our own spirits become healed, more refined, and stronger. We become happier, more peaceful, and more receptive to the whisperings of the Holy Spirit.” You can read his whole talk on how we can be the Lord’s hands here.

    Mosiah 2:17 –  And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.


    St. Matthew 25:40 –  And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.


    St. John 13:34 – A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 

    6. Testify of Jesus Christ and His gospel.

    In my life, my testimony of Jesus Christ, and my relationship with Him, has grown the most through sharing His gospel with others.

    Never have I felt the Spirit more, felt the love of God for me individually more, realized my purpose and worth more, than when I am anxiously engaged in the work of bringing souls unto Christ.

    Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ want all people to receive exaltation. Those of us who have the truth are called to share it with the world, so all can partake of the gift of the atonement of our Savior.

    Doctrine and Covenants 18:15 – And if it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and bring, save it be one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my Father!


    Isaiah 52:7 – How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!


    I know that if we do these things, as well as any other things that draw us nearer to God, that each and every day can be as special to us as Easter Sunday. Let us live our religion every day, and love the Lord with all our heart, might, mind and strength.

  • Sabbath Day Light: Peace through Keeping God’s Commandments

    In church this past Sunday, we had our monthly Testimony Meeting. In these meetings, members of the congregation, who feel the Spirit prompt them, will come up to the pulpit and share their testimony of different aspects of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I always look forward to these meetings, and often share my testimony.

    In this particular meeting, there were three individuals, all from different backgrounds, who spoke a similar theme. One of the speakers was a 12-year-old girl, not yet a member of our church. She expressed sincere gratitude to the missionaries for teaching her the gospel, and for helping her turn her life around. She said she used to be “out of control,” but has now calmed down and starting doing the right things. She is so happy to be a part of our congregation.

    Another sister spoke of a close member of her family who had been making poor decisions for quite a while. Life was getting harder and harder for him. She had been praying for this person to have an experience where his eyes would be opened and he would realize he was on the wrong path. She said that her prayer had recently been answered. She is so grateful because now, this person she loves so dearly, has recognized that he has been missing God’s love in his life. He wants a relationship with his Father in Heaven again.

    The third person whose testimony struck me has been coming back been to church, where he had been gone a long time. As he spoke, his humility and honesty were inspiring. He expressed a desire to continue to turn his life around and get worthy again to return to the temple. He knows he has done some wrong things. He knows that he needs to change to be truly happy, and he is trying really hard to do so.

    Each of these people helped me see a theme, which is when we follow the commandments the Lord has set for us, we are at peace. We have hope, we feel love, and we see our true potential.
    In the Book of Mormon, the prophet Nephi said, “…And if it so be that the children of men keep the commandments of God he doth nourish them, and strengthen them, and provide means whereby they can accomplish the thing which he has commanded them… (1 Nephi 17:3).”

    In his mortal ministry, Jesus said,  “…I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me (John 14:6).”

    I know this to be true. You can read more about how members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints keep the commandments here: http://www.mormon.org/beliefs/commandments