tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65578211288465251332024-03-13T10:54:52.452-07:00What's Up At BYU-IdahoTonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-7707521160419791912014-01-11T10:57:00.001-08:002014-01-11T10:58:36.799-08:00Of Temples and TrialsSo it's been a long time since I've posted here. Almost three years, in fact! And as you might have imagined, a lot has happened in those few years. And I mean a lot, so much that I don't think I could remember all of it and put it all in one entry! So to sum up what's happened to me:<br />
<ul>
<li>I served as a missionary in the Utah Ogden Mission from
January 2011 to January 2013 (yes, there are missions in Utah!)</li>
<li> I then worked pretty much the whole year of 2013 to pay off
loan debts and save up for school (and that year was one of the
greatest growing experiences in my life to date) </li>
<li> On New Years Day of this year, I flew back out to the place and the land I loved, Utah!</li>
<li>I took the Front Runner (for the first time, it was fun!) from Orem to Ogden on the 3rd and drove up to Rexburg with a missionary friend</li>
</ul>
And now I am back here at BYUI! It's been a little over a week of being here and I have been able to settle in rather nicely. There has been much growth and change on campus and yet many things that have stayed the same (and both are good!). One of the many things I have been grateful for here at BYU-Idaho has been the fact that there is a temple so close to the campus. I remember not too long ago talking about my experiences in the Rexburg Temple and my feelings towards this particular temple are still strong, even more so now that I have been through the temple for my own endowment and have grown in my appreciation for its hallowed walls and the sacred ordinances that are performed therein. Now there is a reason for me bringing this all up.<br />
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Transitioning back from mission life to home life, and then from home life to school, always has its challenges, challenges which I will likely get into in later blog posts. I have been working really hard to stay on top of my studies this semester, to stay one step ahead so to speak and to do even better than I had done in my previous stay here at BYU-Idaho. I would like to think that overall I have been able to do just that in this first week, but with that effort can come a certain amount of stress as well, coupled with the fact that I am away from home again after having been with my family for a whole year. Now it isn't the first time I've been away from them, but it is never easy to be away from the ones you love, though it is a sacrifice I know I need to make for not only my well-being but theirs as well. Anyways, all the stress and burdens of this week were just seeming to catch up with me yesterday. I had just recently been called to serve as the second counselor in our ward's elder's quorum presidency and so that only compounded my worry and feelings of inadequacy. I felt lonely, burdened, tired, and even aggravated because I didn't feel like I was getting everything done in the way and time that I wanted to. I was burnt out.<br />
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I knew then that I needed to find rest. I needed to go to the temple.<br />
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And so I woke up this morning, deciding that I would do just that. After grabbing a bite to eat, getting dressed and studying the scriptures for a bit, I started my walk up to the temple. There are things that happened during and at the end of that walk that I feel have great lessons to teach me and perhaps another who may be reading this. One thing I noticed is that after just a little time had elapsed during my walk, the wind began to blow rather forcefully towards me, going the opposite direction of where I was headed. Now Rexburg being the windy city that it is, it shouldn't seem surprising. But it seemed as though it was all focused on blowing opposite to the direction that I was facing. How true is that in our own lives, when we are trying to get to the temple, or do anything good for that matter? How often does it seem that the winds and trials of life, even the wiles of the devil himself, are just throwing themselves against us, seemingly never letting up the whole journey there? Sure, there may be times when it ebbs and flows, but overall isn't that the case? And yet it is not completely unbearable. In fact, it can be as simple as just continuing to walk on through, to keep moving, all the while keeping our focus on our end goal that is in sight. Indeed, just being able to view what the end has in store for us can make all of the hardship and effort worthwhile.<br />
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Another thing I found interesting was that when I first started heading to the temple, there was barely any wind resistance and it wasn't until I started the literally upward climb towards the temple that the winds started blowing. So often when we are starting out on a path to something good, everything can seem all well and honky-dory. And then when seemingly out of nowhere the trials start coming, and coming hard, it can be incredibly tempting to go with the flow of the wind and turn back towards the way we came. And yet that doesn't ever lead us to progress, and instead can fill us with feelings of failure and even guilt. We give up on ourselves and on the world and retreat back to what we knew before, never knowing the blessings and glory that we could have if we would just press on.<br />
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After pushing through, I finally got to the main entrance to the temple. And guess what? It was closed for maintenance. You can imagine my initial feelings of disappointment at not being able to enter. And yet was my spirit crushed? Was it not worth it? The answer is a resounding NO! Far from being defeated, I was able to sit and relax, to rest and enjoy the peace of the temple that one can feel even sitting in its outer courts. And what did I learn from this particular experience? That whether we are inside or outside, doing the work within its walls or keeping our covenants from day to day, the fact that the temple is a place of peace and rest never changes! Simply being able to sit on the grounds and walk around this holy house was able to give me a spiritual boost and reminder of God's love that I needed for this week. And perhaps even more important was the lesson that God must have known I needed to learn from walking to the temple.<br />
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Now I'm not saying that we shouldn't enter the temple when we can, or that merely sitting outside of it is enough to qualify for the blessings to be had in the house of God. But we can always rest assured in our testimonies that God's presence is there, that His love is real and is with us whenever we need it and as long as we are willing to ask for it and live our covenants so as to be able to feel that love more constantly and fully. God be thanked for the temples. God be thanked for the precious gift of His Divine Son, Jesus the Christ. I know He lives. How I love Him. How I need His help and grace every day of my life. I so testify and share this with all of you in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.<br />
<br />Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-10935127125370955152010-03-08T16:23:00.001-08:002010-03-08T16:55:50.645-08:00Loving RemindersI was able to teach a lesson to my Elders Quorum for the first time yesterday, and it was quite an experience. Though on a bit of short notice, I was able to adequately read the text and seek the Spirit's guidance in formulating what I would say and questions that could be asked. I am delighted to say that it went rather well, with great participation and discussion and a sweet Spirit that accompanied me as I taught. Truly, we can't be edified unless we all get together and share what the Spirit gives us. What a rich experience it was to feel the blessings of being in this calling.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.moroni10.com/Young_Jesus_Teaching.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 515px; height: 396px;" src="http://www.moroni10.com/Young_Jesus_Teaching.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />We also were able to have a wonderful temple prep. class taught by Bro. Risenmay in our ward. The talk of saving ordinances, the covenants accompanying them, and the symbolism ingrained in all of them was a truly uplifting and inspiring occurrence. I realized how badly I needed to start regularly attending the Rexburg temple and of the peace and power that would come to me as I did so. Thanks to the Standard Works, the help and insights of others, books, and resources such as TempleStudy.com , I am able to prepare myself in some way for the day that I receive my own endowment in the Boston Temple.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/S5WcgpNnnBI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/S60TId8_ckU/s1600-h/rexburg+temple+lush+grass.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/S5WcgpNnnBI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/S60TId8_ckU/s400/rexburg+temple+lush+grass.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446431409007205394" /></a><br /><br />Finally, the day ended off with the CES broadcast talk given by Elder Rasband. As he talked about the influence of righteous friends and of those who will truly stand by you in all aspects of life, I couldn't help but think of all of the true friends I have in my life to look up to, some of them even younger than I am. Truly, such friendships are a tender mercy of the Lord, and Joseph was right when he stated that<br />“Friendship is one of the grand fundamental principles of ‘Mormonism.’ … It unites the human family with its happy influence.” <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.meridianmagazine.com/images/carthage/essay12.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 1146px;" src="http://www.meridianmagazine.com/images/carthage/essay12.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />What a glorious Sunday it has been.Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-61554406500207479632010-01-24T20:51:00.000-08:002010-01-24T22:07:46.968-08:00As I Have Loved You<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/S10jc0QYd7I/AAAAAAAAAGk/_IKTFimqnrg/s1600-h/Rexburg_idaho_temple_at_sunset.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 298px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/S10jc0QYd7I/AAAAAAAAAGk/_IKTFimqnrg/s320/Rexburg_idaho_temple_at_sunset.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430535703649351602" /></a><br /><br />Let me just start by saying that the Rexburg Idaho temple is a true jem, a towering beauty of the Lord's majesty. It was a pleasure to be able to walk on the grounds in the first week or so. The incredible Spirit that resides there and the wonderful symbolism of staffs of wheat only added to its grandeur. There was one day that I finally got to enter into that sacred edifice to do work for those who passed on, and it was a day unlike any other.<br /><br />I could feel the warmth of the door handle in contrast to the brisk weather outside as I walked into the waiting room. Within minutes I was in a beautiful chapel that had no more than a glass partition between it and the baptismal font, allowing people to see first-hand the ordinance of vicarious baptism as they waited and contemplated. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/S10mlnKqMaI/AAAAAAAAAGs/DtxxRjlsEZo/s1600-h/Temple+2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 215px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/S10mlnKqMaI/AAAAAAAAAGs/DtxxRjlsEZo/s320/Temple+2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430539153289392546" /></a><br /><br /><br />It was while I was waiting there and immersed in the scriptures that someone caught my eye. Perhaps he stuck out since the majority of those who were sitting in the chapel were students at BYU-Idaho. This blonde-haired, deacon-age boy, fully clothed in his white jumpsuit, sat in front of me between his two sisters as they got comfortable. What happened next would be very tender to me and would end up affecting me for the rest of that day, as it still does now.<br /><br />For some reason I felt drawn to watch him as he reminded me of some people I knew back home. It was then that I saw him lovingly massage the back of one of his sisters as he calmly rested his head on the shoulder of the other.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/S10x7nJuO1I/AAAAAAAAAG0/FZNgit8xIaM/s1600-h/brother-sister.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/S10x7nJuO1I/AAAAAAAAAG0/FZNgit8xIaM/s320/brother-sister.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430551625870490450" /></a><br /><br />Something that might seem so insignificant to the average person struck me so deeply. It was then that I understood what the temple was all about. It was about uniting our families in the bonds of love, and not just through the sealing ordinances, though such is surely of importance. It was even more. It was becoming one, Zion, through service, through simple acts of kindness and generosity, through becoming like our Savior, Jesus Christ. This young, truly loving brother to his older sisters truly understood what it was to have the pure love of Christ. All it took was something so seemingly simple to convey that to me. I could not help but feel love for him and his family, people I barely even knew, as tears of quiet gratitude welled up in my eyes.<br /><br />Moroni 7:45-48 <br /> "And charity suffereth long, and is kind, and envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, and rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.<br /> Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail—<br /> But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.<br /> Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure. Amen."<br /><br />Amen, indeed.Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-71722911654255265632009-12-06T19:24:00.000-08:002009-12-06T20:03:32.901-08:00Out Of The Mouths Of BabesIt wasn't until after Church today that I realized it would be my last fast and testimony meeting in the Georgetown ward before leaving for BYU Idaho.<br /><br />The spiritual significance of the day, however, was quite clear to me. Especially when a certain boy named Jakob, no more than 11 years of age perhaps, happened to suddenly appear at the podium. I was immediately drawn to where he was standing. Oh, you could see it in his eyes.<br /><br />It wasn't one of those deals where a parent prods his or her little child to get up and bear their testimony so that they can get used to doing so in Church. No, he had gotten out of his seat next to Bro. Tew and walked right up.<br /><br />And what he said struck me to the very core. He was just so genuine, you could feel it in the way he talked, the look in his eyes, his animated movements. He simply bore a short testimony of his gratitude for his eternal family and for those in the ward. That's it. No fan-fare.<br /><br />Tears welled up in my eyes, and they do even now as I think about it. If there's one thing I'm going to remember when I'm away from my home, it's that.<br /><br />Thank you, Little Tew. Thank you, and God Bless you.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sxx-h7sK2VI/AAAAAAAAAGc/mXM5t3nHnQU/s1600-h/Jesus+with+boy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sxx-h7sK2VI/AAAAAAAAAGc/mXM5t3nHnQU/s320/Jesus+with+boy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412339973616228690" /></a>Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-84190124170937437972009-11-27T17:14:00.000-08:002009-11-27T17:37:01.388-08:00What the Movies Have Taught Me About The GospelI recently had the pleasure of viewing the movies 2012 and A Christmas Carol(3D).<br /><br />I was rather surprised as I found there were things that really stuck out to me in both movies and even a common theme found in both of them. This may not come as a shock to others who may have sensed elements of the Gospel of Jesus Christ while viewing certain films but I just wouldn't expect to have such things revealed to me through an outlet like Hollywood.<br /><br />Regarding 2012, I was amazed at just how realistic (and frightening!) the destructions that came upon the inhabitants of the earth were. I was surely thankful for our knowledge that the end will not come in 2012 as some have assumed the Mayan calendar indicates, but more thankful for the reminder of the need to prepare now, to be repenting and be righteous now, in the days that will surely lead up to the Second Coming.<br />I was rather impressed when I saw the bond between the main protagonist in the film, portrayed by John Cusack, and his children. In such a time of tragedy, the father, his daughter, and especially his disaffected son and ex-wife were able to truly come together and understand and express their love for each other. They came to see what really mattered most. In the words of Cusack in the film, "wherever we are together, that is home."<br /><br />In Disney's modern adaption of Dicken's A Christmas Carol, I was struck by how powerfully they were able to get moral messages across through the use of intense visuals and special effects. Again, I was struck with the need to reach out to others not just during this Christmas season but always, and again the importance of families and the need for all to know of the sealing ordinances of the temple that allow families to endure for eternity.<br /><br />You never know where you may find inspiration. In this instance, it was smacking me in the face. Figuratively, of course. The 3D was good but not that good.Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-88054852427606402122009-10-18T17:01:00.000-07:002009-10-18T17:30:52.127-07:00On This Day Of PentecostI honestly don't even know where to start.<br />There have been special happenings and incredible blessings on this most sacred of Sabbaths.<br /><br />It's not every Sunday that you learn that the man you have known as the bishop of your ward for all of the time you have been in the gopsel is being released. Surely not on what seems like just another groggy day where you try your best to not appear half-asleep as you hustle into sacrament meeting.<br /><br />It's not every Sunday that you get to, as a priest, serve in the priesthood by passing the sacrament to the row where the bishop and his counselors reside.<br /><br />It's not every Sunday that you learn that the man who has been a father to you in the Church is being called to what may undoubtedly be one of the most blessed and challenging offices in the priesthood.<br /><br />After all, you've been going over Brother Capener's house almost since the time you joined and that family first let you into their wonderful home. You've gone to his son's horse show, you've helped his wife out while his other son has a piano recital, you've gone there just to spend time with the family that makes you wish you were sealed eternally to your own family. You've felt that every minute, every day spent in their presence was an answer to prayer.<br /><br />To find out that that man is to be called as the Bishop of the Georgetown MA Ward of the Exeter NH Stake of Zion, and this while you're still trying to get the dust from out of your sleepy eyes, is sure to wake you up. <br /><br />I think my feelings may have reflected that of many people today when I say that I was shocked, elated, and sad all at once. I honestly can't find words to express the feelings, the promptings of the Spirit to my soul on this incredible occasion. The world is reeling and spinning and people all around are continuously caught in the storms of life, but yet you and a few other people are witnessing an event that no one of much worldy prestige would ever witness in their lifetime.<br /><br />First, let me express my incredible gratitude and love for Bishop Fitzgerald and all of his years of service in our ward. Here is a man who took me under his wing, who showed his love to the youth and I in so many ways. Never overbearing or condescending, he gently guided me along the way and sincerely discussed the doctrines of the Gospel with me. I think it is an incredible understatement when I say I will miss that man of God. With all my heart, I love him and support him in whatever the Lord sees fit for him and his wonderful family.<br /><br />Brother Capener. Bishop Capener. It is still surreal to even call him by such a title. The man who ordained me to the Aaronic priesthood, whose family invited me into their home. The man who would give me great big bear hugs each time I would see him at church. The man whom I saw openly express love for his children and treat them with gentleness no matter what they might be doing. This man was and is a father to me in this Church. He reminds me of my own father, whom I love more than the world and all things in it. He reminds me of the father I want, I strive to be.<br />I got one of those bear hugs today. I hope you know, Bishop, that I love you, your family, and support you 100%. I realize I need to let my own family know more that I love them, and support them 100%.<br /><br />Thank you to you both. These are just a few of the men that have so incredibly and powerfully affected my life.<br /><br />And oh, how could I forget Brother Tew. The greatest missionary I've ever met. The one who had no problem declaring his love for the young men he taught and with whom served. I wish all of the young men could have been there in class today to hear what you said. Know that you are not the only one shedding tears. The young men of the Georgetown ward will eternally appreicate your dedication and selfless love, and will look back and know of the impact you had in their life. You have helped me to want to become a better priesthood holder, and someday a worthy husband. You're not just cool, or hip. You are my friend. You were a friend and ever will be to all of us. We love you Brother Tew.<br /><br /><br />I had the privelige of meeting with Stake President Watson for my final interview for the Melchezidek Priesthood. The words spoken, I may not always remember, but the Spirit borne and embedded into my soul will ever stand as a testament to the reality of the Priesthood and the love of God.<br /><br />I can say with all clarity that God loves us. He inspires and calls men to His holy work in these days as in days of old. I know, <span style="font-style:italic;">I know</span>, that my Redeemer lives. I haven't felt mercy more tender than today. How can I even express my love for Him. My Elder Brother, my Savior, my Friend. I love Him. It pains me when I sin after knowing what He did for me, and yet I know He loves me enough to allow me to overcome my imperfections. He is the reason I am in this Church, the reason I do the things I do. I love Him. I miss Him. I hope I can be with Him again, along with my family in the presence of my Heavenly Father. And I mean ALL my family.<br /><br />What did I ever do to deserve this? Nothing. And some might say that's the beauty of it. I am so, so, grateful. Thank you, Father. May such blesings be upon all those who humbly seek Him, I pray, in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, Amen.Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-69066094080377775012009-10-15T18:21:00.000-07:002009-10-15T19:14:12.941-07:00We Love Him Because He First Loved UsPresident Uchtdorf's talks have always been a source of comfort, hope, and faith for me. I firmly hold that his most recent talk in General Conference on the love of God demonstrates this. An excerpt, from "The Love Of God":<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Why Does Heavenly Father Love Us?</span><br /><br />Think of the purest, most all-consuming love you can imagine. Now multiply that love by an infinite amount—that is the measure of God’s love for you.<br /><br />God does not look on the outward appearance. I believe that He doesn’t care one bit if we live in a castle or a cottage, if we are handsome or homely, if we are famous or forgotten. Though we are incomplete, God loves us <span style="font-style:italic;">completely</span>. Though we are imperfect, He loves us <span style="font-style:italic;">perfectly</span>. Though we may feel lost and without compass, God’s love <span style="font-style:italic;">encompasses us completely</span>.<br /><br />He loves us because He is filled with an infinite measure of holy, pure, and indescribable love. We are important to God not because of our résumé but because we are His children. He loves every one of us, even those who are flawed, rejected, awkward, sorrowful, or broken. God’s love is so great that He loves even the proud, the selfish, the arrogant, and the wicked.<br /><br />What this means is that, regardless of our current state, there is hope for us. No matter our distress, no matter our sorrow, no matter our mistakes, our infinitely compassionate Heavenly Father desires that we draw near to Him so that He can draw near to us.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/StfW1KEWp_I/AAAAAAAAAGU/avKaTJmBcgM/s1600-h/Jesus%26Children_001.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 249px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/StfW1KEWp_I/AAAAAAAAAGU/avKaTJmBcgM/s320/Jesus%26Children_001.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5393015287523485682" /></a><br /><br />What words of truth from a humble yet powerful witness of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-71163830143684224612009-10-08T00:05:00.000-07:002009-10-08T00:11:33.915-07:00The Book of Mormon is True!<a href="http://www.lds-church.ie/pics/news/418.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 290px; height: 320px;" src="http://www.lds-church.ie/pics/news/418.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Pressing Forward and Holding Fast<br /><br />Elder Jeffrey R. Holland<br />Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles<br /><br />May I refer to a modern “last days” testimony? When Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum started for Carthage to face what they knew would be imminent martyrdom, Hyrum read these words to comfort the heart of his brother. “Thou hast been faithful; wherefore, thy garments shall be made clean…Thou shalt be made strong, even unto the sitting down in the place which I prepared in the mansions of my Father. And now I, Moroni, bid farewell…until we shall meet before the judgment-seat of Christ.”<br /><br />…As one of a thousand elements of my own testimony of the divinity of the Book of Mormon I submit this as yet one more evidence of its truthfulness. In this their greatest—and last—hour of need, I ask you—would these men blaspheme before God by continuing to fix their lives, their honor and their own search for eternal salvation on a book (and by implication a church and a ministry) they had fictitiously created out of whole cloth?<br /><br />Never mind that their wives are about to be widows and their children fatherless. Never mind that their little band of followers will yet be “houseless, homeless and friendless” and that their children will leave “footprints of blood” across frozen rivers and an untamed prairie floor. Never mind that legions will die and other legions live declaring in the four quarters of the earth that they know the Book of Mormon and the Church which espouses it to be true. Disregard all of that and tell me whether in this hour of death these two men would enter the presence of their Eternal Judge quoting from and finding solace in a book which, if not the very word of God, would brand them as imposters and charlatans until the end of time? They would not do that. They were willing to die rather than deny the divine origin and the eternal truthfulness of the Book of Mormon.<br /><br />For one hundred and seventy-nine years this book has been examined and attacked, denied and deconstructed, targeted and torn apart like perhaps no other book in modern religious history---perhaps like no other book in any religious history. And still it stands. Failed, often silly theories about its origins have been born, parroted and died—from Ethan Smith to Solomon Spaulding to deranged paranoid to cunning genius. None of these frankly pathetic answers for the book has ever withstood examination because there is no other answer than the one Joseph gave as its young unlearned translator. In this I stand with my own great grandfather who said simply enough, “No wicked man could write such a book as this, and no good man would write it, unless it were true and he were commanded of God to do so.”<br /><br />I testify that one cannot come to a full faith in this latter-day work—and thereby find the fullest measure of peace and comfort for our times—until he or she embraces the divinity of the Book of Mormon and the Lord Jesus Christ of whom it testifies. If anyone is foolish enough or misled enough to reject 531 pages of a heretofore unknown text teeming with literary and Semitic complexity without honestly attempting to account for the origin of those pages—especially without accounting for their powerful witness of Jesus Christ and the profound spiritual impact that witness has had on what is now tens of millions of readers—then such persons, elect or otherwise, have been deceived and, if they leave this Church, they must do so by crawling over or around or under the Book of Mormon to make their exit.<br />(Taken from Sunday Afternoon session of latest General Conference)<br /><br /><br />Elder Holland is a true spiritual giant. Anyone who has listened to and seen his talks throughout the years and assuredly in recent general conferences can testify to that. Of course, this is not simply because of his eloquence in writing or proving a point of doctrine. It is not just his explanations of the need for continuous revelation, a restoration of the Gospel, and the Christianity of Mormonism. It is the fact that he has a witness etched into his soul that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. He knows that. It is evident. I can say in all honesty that I have come to see that Jeffrey R. Holland is an apostle of the Lord. I look forward to catching the parts of conference I had missed while up in Sharon, VT.Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-50963606325529324552009-10-04T17:58:00.000-07:002009-10-04T18:59:12.425-07:00Oh, How Lovely Was the WeekendThe written or spoken word can not accurately describe the feelings of my heart as I have been able to visit the birthplace of the Prophet Joseph Smith and watch General Conference at the memorial site built to his name this weekend. A sweeter Spirit have I never felt as I have lodged with friends in Camp Joseph and taken in the rich, natural beauty of Sharon, Vermont.<br /><br /><a href="http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/09/08/17/362.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 360px; height: 480px;" src="http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/09/08/17/362.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />The utterances of prophets and apostles of the Lord as I have sat surrounded by portraits and portrayals of the Prophet's life have burned a testimony deep into my soul that he was the Lord's mouthpiece set to restore the true Church of God again upon the earth.<br /><br />I had a most wonderful experience as I watched the priesthood session in the building next to the visitor's center where the tours take place. I was able after hearing some truly inspired and dear to my heart messages to talk with and relate my conversion to a grandfather, father, and son from MA. The kindness of their words to me and the warm glow that seemed to beam from their faces as they gave words of encouragement even to this very moment fill my heart with feelings of joy and gratitude for such humble and genuine men of God. The grandfather was enthusiastic about my joining the church and truly came off as delighted to share how he had found the gospel as well. The father was warm and encouraging and made me feel as though I were part of his very family, a son of his own. His young son, who was most likely of deacon age, was a gentle and amiable young man who had a never-ending smile on his face as I talked with him. I later saw this same young man outside the center as he walked, right between two grandparents, hand in hand with them both as he gingerly supported them in their stroll. It was enough to melt the heart of any man. <br /><br />The incredible Spirit I recieved as I gazed upon and walked around the obelisk was enough to bring me tears of gratitude and a sense of wonderful awe. I went to sleep that night with my heart filled to overflowing for all the tender mercies of the Lord I had experienced and for the two angels He sent me in the form of His duly appointed emissaries.<br /><br /><a href="http://a0.vox.com/6a00ccff9823bf6ea50123ddb7c620860c-500pi"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://a0.vox.com/6a00ccff9823bf6ea50123ddb7c620860c-500pi" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />The only place I could relate to this wonderful heaven-like location is the holy temple of the Lord. Indeed, nature and the sweet influence of the Holy Ghost served as a temple of its own in that hallowed place. I feel like shouting Hosannas to the Lord for ever having been able to experience such a wonderful blessing. I am ever humbled and grateful for a Lord and Father who are mindful of my personal life and spiritual needs. I know They love me. I know it. I have felt it there, and feel it now. I love Them, and it is my sincere prayer that others may feel a bit of what I have felt when they have such an oppurtunity to visit that birthplace of the Lord's annointed.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/SslSgWGCYTI/AAAAAAAAAGM/lu9fa7yLvbo/s1600-h/First-vision-of-the-restoration.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 160px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/SslSgWGCYTI/AAAAAAAAAGM/lu9fa7yLvbo/s320/First-vision-of-the-restoration.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388929144765702450" /></a>Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-24702040158773569122009-09-24T15:15:00.000-07:002009-09-24T15:17:55.384-07:00Do Not Procrastinate The Day Of Your BloggingWow, it's been a little while, and I apologize! Between getting ready for college and other things, I haven't exactly been keeping up to date on posting the goings-on and daily things that make my life worth living :D<br /><br />So I apologize for my slacking. I'll try my best to be more consistent. <br /><br />Meanwhile, here is something that I just absolutely love. Photographer extraordanaire Mark Mabry has done it again. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://deseretbook.com/video/embed/343" width="425" height="445" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0"></iframe><br /><br />God Bless!Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-14080300833488557972009-06-21T18:11:00.000-07:002009-06-21T18:34:50.762-07:00Reflections on Fathers<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sj7ajzsrU_I/AAAAAAAAAE8/oMHi5G_XFhY/s1600-h/father_son.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 335px; height: 335px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sj7ajzsrU_I/AAAAAAAAAE8/oMHi5G_XFhY/s400/father_son.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349953716070601714" /></a><br /><br /><br />What a wonderful day this is. As I think of all the wonderful fathers in my life, my heart is filled to overflowing with gratitude. My own father has been there for me all my life, having helped given me life and being my support for so long, always proud of me. I love him so much, and can't think of what I would do without him. He's my dad, and he always will be my dad.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sj7b7NJlPII/AAAAAAAAAFE/1RPN3PjHR4o/s1600-h/fatherson.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 221px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sj7b7NJlPII/AAAAAAAAAFE/1RPN3PjHR4o/s320/fatherson.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349955217551342722" /></a><br /><br />Another man who has been a father to me spiritually and in so many wonderful ways in the Church is Brother Capener. This man of faith has ordained me to the priesthood of our God,invited me to father-son campouts, and just taken me under his wing, always welcoming me. I look up to him so much.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sj7coqfHj3I/AAAAAAAAAFM/IXxULvA_f48/s1600-h/jewishfatherson.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sj7coqfHj3I/AAAAAAAAAFM/IXxULvA_f48/s320/jewishfatherson.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349955998520414066" /></a><br /><br />President Watson of Exeter Stake has a testimony and faithfullness to the Gospel that inspires me. Always referring to me as his "adopted son," I can't help but respect that mighty servant of the Lord. His talks and firesides have affected me in a way that only he could. I have his guidance and love to thank for my spiritual progression in many ways.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sj7ebfYTNjI/AAAAAAAAAFU/-rD_V9BaIPQ/s1600-h/hindu+father+son.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sj7ebfYTNjI/AAAAAAAAAFU/-rD_V9BaIPQ/s320/hindu+father+son.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349957971223983666" /></a><br /><br />There are many more fathers, so much that if I were to name them all I don't think I would have room to do so on this post. They will ever stand as a witness to me of the love and care that my Father in Heaven has for me, His child. I have not forgotten the sweet and powerful manifestations to my soul that He lives, that He loves me with a perfect love, and that I love Him. Thank you Father. I wouldn't be here if it weren't for you. Thank you.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sj7fmWvAqQI/AAAAAAAAAFc/x21Egbu4ZmE/s1600-h/islam+fatherson.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 270px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sj7fmWvAqQI/AAAAAAAAAFc/x21Egbu4ZmE/s320/islam+fatherson.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349959257393506562" /></a>Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-69968635945169317492009-06-16T17:31:00.000-07:002009-06-16T17:43:33.506-07:00The Sacred BenchA wonderful person and fellow blogger has recently posted an elongated version of my conversion story on her blog Becoming LDS. Be sure to stop by, and if possible, send her your own conversion story!<br /><br />http://www.becomingldsconversionstories.blogspot.com/2009/06/sacred-bench.html<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sjg8DZMoA2I/AAAAAAAAAEk/F131nK_2SfM/s1600-h/baptism+alma.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 238px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sjg8DZMoA2I/AAAAAAAAAEk/F131nK_2SfM/s320/baptism+alma.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348090586503578466" /></a>Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-2169120042744193182009-06-13T20:49:00.000-07:002009-06-13T21:14:22.110-07:00A Dance with the SpiritOh, what a day it has been!<br />If there is one thing I love about being a Mormon, it is taking one Saturday out of every month to let loose on the dance floor, not having to ever worry about crude lyrics, immodest dress, or immoral dancing. You just feel so free, and as a result you enjoy it so much! Who else gets to dance like that for a good almost three hours and then go to Church the next day? It is incredible. Especially when you can feel the Spirit at that dance. Which I did!<br /><br />We had a newcomer to the dance. His name was Mitch. Rather on the small side, it would be easy to mistake him as a deacon. This wonderful kid came bravely to his first dance ever, and in the beginning you could tell that he was a bit shy about getting out there. I kept my eye on him, wanting to make sure that he didn't feel as uncomfortable as I did the first time. I was amazed and overwhelmed with feelings of joy and love as I saw so many faithful Latter Day Saint youth talk to him and introduce him. By the end of the dance, this meek teacher had, as Elder Tidwell would put it, "cut the rug," dancing with three girls and unhesitatingly rocking out in the middle of what had to be one of the biggest and most intimidating dance circles ever formed, something that I wouldn't even dare do! <br /><br />That kid has some real bravery, and above all just a wonderful spirit about him. Because of people reaching out, and the Spirit that was with us at this dance, he was comfortable very soon and had soon made quite a few aqcuaintances! I was humbled to be one of them. God Bless You, Mitch! Way to go brother! We love ya!<br /><br />This is just another reminder to me of why it is such a great day to be a Latter Day Saint youth in this day and age. I can't explain how impressed and happy I am becuase of what went on at the dance tonight. I love the youth of our stake.<br /><br />Just goes to show you that God loves His children.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/SjR43qSvtAI/AAAAAAAAAEU/EoSDwogOvS8/s1600-h/ArtBook__116_116__ChristAndChildrenFromAroundTheWorld_Sm___.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 302px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/SjR43qSvtAI/AAAAAAAAAEU/EoSDwogOvS8/s400/ArtBook__116_116__ChristAndChildrenFromAroundTheWorld_Sm___.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347031555236672514" /></a>Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-18065511721334897402009-05-01T16:41:00.001-07:002009-05-01T16:46:21.488-07:00The Kingdom of Heaven<object width="480" height="295"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zP7K7PUU_24&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zP7K7PUU_24&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="295"></embed></object><br /><br />There is no greater faith than the faith of a child.Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-39600788638965174362009-04-16T15:38:00.000-07:002009-04-16T15:51:04.382-07:00Holiness to the LORD<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/See2JALNaaI/AAAAAAAAAD8/3sa3PPCd8Es/s1600-h/Boston+Temple.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/See2JALNaaI/AAAAAAAAAD8/3sa3PPCd8Es/s400/Boston+Temple.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325425350170995106" /></a><br /><br />The House of the LORD. We went to the temple yesterday, and I can't even begin to express how I felt. I suppose that each time you go it gets better and more meaningful for you, especially when it has been a while. The minute I walked in and sat down in that waiting area, I felt a peace like none other, and knew that I was in a holy place where the Lord could truly come and dwell if He so pleased. I was quite excited to see so many from the ward there, and it was great that Drew got to come for his first time. When we got to the chapel, the Spirit really hit me as the temple president talked about just how much of a refuge and what kind of a place the temple is, and how we are our own temples and can keep that peace inside of us if we would but keep the Spirit within us. I've never felt more calm! <br /><br />Then it was time for confirmations. As I sat waiting I saw Brother Capener dipping his son into the water. What a special experience that must have been. (You should have seen Drew's hair after when he came into the dressing room! Hillarious!) Anyways, then it was time for me to sit. Oh man, could I feel the priesthood power in that room! Baptisms were the same...I found it interesting that almost everyone I was baptized for was named Jose and were from Mexico. Hmmm....<br /><br />Of course, the drive home was fun as always. Jr. Frostys, and all the guys bugging each other as always :D (Can you say "arctic leapord"?)<br /><br />I didn't want to leave. I look forward to going again, and meeting those on the other side...I'm not sure what I'm going to do about names though. (Jose #1, Josue, Jose Diaz,...) :)<br /><br /><br />(Draper Utah Temple)<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/See2JvOYzvI/AAAAAAAAAEM/sop1CoKdcwA/s1600-h/sealing+room.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 290px; height: 217px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/See2JvOYzvI/AAAAAAAAAEM/sop1CoKdcwA/s400/sealing+room.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325425362800791282" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/See2JYYmDNI/AAAAAAAAAEE/Uav-2c43CMc/s1600-h/draper-temple-3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/See2JYYmDNI/AAAAAAAAAEE/Uav-2c43CMc/s400/draper-temple-3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325425356669586642" /></a>Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-43838400293042691632009-04-09T18:09:00.001-07:002009-04-09T18:14:07.104-07:00'Even A Child Can Understand'<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/lDSItCKMmi0&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/lDSItCKMmi0&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />"The light of faith rests in our hearts...Truth our guiding Star!"<br /><br />"Suffer them, and forbid them not, to come unto me, for of such is the Kingdom of God"<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sd6dM_Qc5mI/AAAAAAAAAD0/6l1wgGgDiak/s1600-h/ArtBook__084_084__JesusBlessesTheNephiteChildren_Sm___.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 303px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sd6dM_Qc5mI/AAAAAAAAAD0/6l1wgGgDiak/s400/ArtBook__084_084__JesusBlessesTheNephiteChildren_Sm___.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322864656062932578" /></a>Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-12190591200270222152009-03-15T14:30:00.000-07:002009-03-15T19:25:37.522-07:00Why I Have a Renewed Gratitude for the Priesthood<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sb24mxpvXHI/AAAAAAAAADs/89vnzJNrs4U/s1600-h/Priesthood_blessing_small.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 317px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sb24mxpvXHI/AAAAAAAAADs/89vnzJNrs4U/s320/Priesthood_blessing_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313606111670000754" /></a><br />So let me get right to it. As those of the G-town ward may very well know, we had a new young man join the Deaconship of the Aaronic Priesthood just last Sunday. It was a truly humbling experience as I joined the circle of brethren who proceeded to place their hands on top of Drew's head as Brother Capener gave the most heartfelt and Spirit-filled blessing I have ever heard. Needless to say I felt the Spirit of God confirm to me that he recieved the Holy Priesthood of God, the power to act in His name. I am reminded of the feelings I had as Brother Capener ordained me to the priesthood not too long ago. It amazes me just how fast it has all been! In any case, I intend to fulfill my duties as a priesthood holder to the best of my abilities, and to support my brethren with all my heart.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sb2DseMNKKI/AAAAAAAAADk/nZGaJHOWrNo/s1600-h/aaronic+priesthood.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 246px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/Sb2DseMNKKI/AAAAAAAAADk/nZGaJHOWrNo/s320/aaronic+priesthood.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313547935408793762" /></a><br /><br />Truly, Thou art a merciful and loving God! Thank you Father :)<br /><br />P.S. Nice job passing the sacrament Drew!Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-88066953990948913202009-02-17T14:25:00.000-08:002009-02-17T14:41:17.494-08:00There is no end to His blessings!I got in! I got accepted! That's right, BYU-Idaho here we come! It's not just the fact that I will pretty much be the first person in my family to ever go to college and hopefully finish through, or the fact that I have been praying that everything would go well, despite all the odds. Oh no, it is the fact that I know that if it weren't for divine intervention, it never would have happened. I just barely got my application finished and miraculously had the money to pay the application fee two days before the final deadline, and I know it was nothing short of a miracle! Thank you, Father. Thank you! Oh, words can not express the joy I feel!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/H_-A8JAx4D8&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/H_-A8JAx4D8&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object> <br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/KOb_XK8qIZQ&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/KOb_XK8qIZQ&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Ok, point made :)Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-30077540756919208202009-02-15T18:13:00.000-08:002009-02-15T18:20:27.740-08:00A True Witness Delivereth Souls!Oh. My. Gosh.<br />Do I know this Church is true!<br /><br />What brought on this sudden knowledge? Haven't I allready recieved this light and truth before? Yes. But when Elder Busath prayed in that still, small voice for me and my family as we sat in the missionaries' car, I felt the Spirit so much that I could not help but smile ( I almost laughed!). I could barely contain myself...it felt like something within me would burst.<br /><br />How grateful I am to know that those men are ordained of God to proclaim glad tidings to all the world, even the fullness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, in all its restored splendor, and to know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the true church of the Lord led by a prophet of God. No man, no amount of anti-literature, and no trials could ever take that knowledge away from me. God Lives! He love us. I know it.<br /><br />(Oh, Elder Kelsey, if you could only see me now.)<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/SZjNPginjJI/AAAAAAAAADc/zKVdhWkR_Rs/s1600-h/Desires-of-My-Heart-Web.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 160px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/SZjNPginjJI/AAAAAAAAADc/zKVdhWkR_Rs/s320/Desires-of-My-Heart-Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303214227545623698" /></a><br />Thank you Joseph. And I thank Thee, Father in Heaven.Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-45002170003413878632009-02-13T10:34:00.000-08:002009-02-13T10:37:16.359-08:00Mormon MessagesA new page run by the Church on YouTube(that's right, Youtube!)<br />called Mormon Messages is a great place to go "If you are looking for a simple way to watch and share brief, gospel-centered videos," as it says on LDS.org.<br />Check it out!<br /><br />http://www.youtube.com/user/MormonMessages<br /><br />Here is a taste of what is there!<br /><object width="480" height="295"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/naqX9iYE0V0&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/naqX9iYE0V0&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="295"></embed></object>Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-69752832886140617382009-02-13T08:14:00.000-08:002009-02-13T08:21:41.913-08:00Alicia, this one is for you!I am sure you will love this video...not only does it have wonderful scenes. but beautiful music taken from the cd "stories of Jesus" by Melanie & roger hoffman (you can find it on Itunes! Great buy)<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Gfx_tke7wxA&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Gfx_tke7wxA&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Be sure to watch it in HQ (high quality)<br />:)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.meridianmagazine.com/radio/images/Stories-of-Jesus.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 255px; height: 255px;" src="http://www.meridianmagazine.com/radio/images/Stories-of-Jesus.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />So cool!!! (haha, I must sound like a giddy elementary school kid)Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-65663603941230959922009-01-30T13:44:00.000-08:002009-01-30T13:45:10.905-08:00In honor of the Pioneers...Video by Ed Askew, a musician I happen to know:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/bGNC5VyZoD4&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/bGNC5VyZoD4&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-1698518416459846912009-01-28T20:40:00.000-08:002009-01-28T20:49:25.292-08:00Praise My Soul The King of Heaven!!!!So today was truly a historic day not only in the History of the Georgetown ward, but the Church itself! For the first time ever, two Apostles talked to a ward and us to them via live satellite video conference. I will not even attempt to say what was said there, as it is to sacred and too much to discuss, but can tell you that I felt the Spirit witness to me that these two men are called of God to be Apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ, and were foreordained to be so. I know that the Church is true, as is the Book of Mormon and the Restoration of the Gospel.<strong>Thomas S. Monson is a prophet of God. Joseph Smith was and is a prophet of God. The truth is restored!</strong> . I bear witness of that fact in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen! Amen, Amen, and Amen!<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://josephsmith.net/Static%20Images/richard_g_scott_MD.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 260px; height: 328px;" src="http://josephsmith.net/Static%20Images/richard_g_scott_MD.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://newsroom.lds.org/Static%20Images/Newsroom/photo/Background%20Information/Leader/Quorum%20of%20the%20Twelve/Bednar_medium.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 290px; height: 320px;" src="http://newsroom.lds.org/Static%20Images/Newsroom/photo/Background%20Information/Leader/Quorum%20of%20the%20Twelve/Bednar_medium.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />These men are cool!<br />:DTonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-76613803726371271162009-01-27T16:17:00.001-08:002009-01-27T16:20:05.516-08:00As a side note...I have finally updated and posted on my other blog "Celestial Voices" asightuntomysoul.blogspot.com<br /><br />Feel free to check it out and tell me what you think!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/SX-kpxo2SsI/AAAAAAAAADU/yfGU0_eEd7k/s1600-h/libera+light.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dtW2BRIce08/SX-kpxo2SsI/AAAAAAAAADU/yfGU0_eEd7k/s320/libera+light.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296132724417252034" /></a>Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6557821128846525133.post-28285336182324626182009-01-26T16:52:00.000-08:002009-01-26T16:55:41.069-08:00Brothers and Sisters...Please pray for Saints and non-members alike in Iceland as they face these difficult times...pray that they may maintain peace in freedom in that beautiful land of theirs as they ride through the storms of a financial crisis that has rocked us all in some way. <br /><br />http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090126/ap_on_bi_ge/eu_iceland_crisis<br /><br />Thank you.Tonyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03960519151863517265noreply@blogger.com0