A Day in the Life of ME...

Each morning when I arrive to work I spend a part of my time checking in with various aquintances through their BLOGS. These friends keep me up to date on their daily lives and often inspire me through their words. The inspiration today was for an entry dedicated to one day in the life of ME (well atleast a working day). The friend who inspired me to this feet wrote about his work day only because he has actual work to do at his job site. I'm writing this entry because I have little to no work to do at my job site (and wanted you all to know about it).

I arrived at the office at a minute or two before 8:00 a.m. only to realize that I'm the first one there. Since I work for a secured transport company I can't enter the building by myself (I choose to remain unarmed and can only enter the building with an armed escort). I carry a book with me for the express purpose of killing time in my car each morning, so I pulled my book out and read a chapter and a half before Melissa (office manager) arrived to let me in. Melissa unlocked my office door and then went on to unlock her own and make herself comfortable with a pillow between her head and the desk.

Being that I only have one item that must be done each and every day I tend to want to accomplish that first and get it out of the way. I sat down at my computer brought up the driver's money withdrawls and credited their accounts. This took approximately five minutes of my time and now my work for the day was done. The question that always comes next, "Now What?"

I move on to check my email (which of course is mostly junk mail). This takes up a few extra minutes of my day, the time it takes to delete the junk mail and then to respond to my friends emails. At this point I move on to reading the Blogs. There are certain days that checking up on the Blogs is a disappointment, those are the days when not one of them have posted an entry. Today was not one of those days. After reading the new entries I am thus inspired to write my own entry reflecting on one day in the life of ME.

At this time I move on to begin my entry, but am interuppted by Melissa coming back into my office to ask me what I would like to drink since Chad (the manager) is at the store and buying us breakfast. I reply that an apple juice would be nice and continue with my Blog.

Fifteen minutes later Chad is finally arriving at the office over an hour late. He comes in carrying a huge box of donuts for the three of us and drinks all around. The apple juice I had requested mistakenly became apple cider (no real complaints there). Instead of a normal size serving Chad found it amusing to buy me a 64oz container of the stuff (he was laughing at my expression when he handed it to me). Again I have no problem with the serving size, it just means I'll have apple cider to take home with me at the end of the day.

Melissa goes back to her office and her pillow, this time carrying two donuts and her chocolate milk with her. Chad sits down at the desk across from me and begins his day eating donuts drinking his chocolate milk and checking his email. Chad often receives joke emails, which he enjoys sharing with me (though I don't always enjoy listening). The email of the day today was "How Women Shower/How Men Shower." It wasn't really as funny as Chad thought it was, but I listened with a slight smile on my face.

At some point Chad receives a call from one of our drivers (each over the road driver must check into the office twice a day). This driver had a joke that he thought was funny enough to repeat to Chad, and then Chad thought it was funny enough to share with me...I was NOT amused. It went:

Driver: "I saved a woman from being raped. You should have seen her she was in a bikini top and biker's shorts."
Chad: "How did you save her?"
Driver: "I stayed in the truck."

SICK...SICK...SICK...SICK...SICK....SICK

So it was back to working on my Blog after that. I'm pretty consistently being able to work on my Blog with the occasional interruption of a phone call or a paper clip attack from Chad. Phone calls mean me answering the phone and then transferring it to either Chad or Melissa. I rarely have to stay on the phone other than the times when the drivers call and want to talk with me, and all they ever have to talk about is the typical shooting the breeze kind of conversation. The paper clip attacks like the one I just experienced come in random moments when Chad is bored and wants to surprise me.

I just received a phone call on my cell. It was the washer and dryer delivery man that was scheduled to bring my rental units to my new apartment today. He was wanting to know why I wasn't answering my door to let him in. UGH!!! This is aggravating since I spoke with the rental company yesterday and they assured me I could leave a check with the apartment leasing office and that the apartment manager could let them into the apartment with my permission. I went to all the trouble of leaving permission and a check with the apartment manager only to find out today that I needed to sign a written contract and be at my apartment when they delivered. The whole situation is a little frustrating, but instead of letting my irratation get the better of me with the delivery guy I was as nice as I could be and worked towards a solution.

The solution came with me taking time off from work next Tuesday afternoon to see to the delivery of the washer and dryer since I already have to be at home for another delivery that is scheduled to come at that time. I see what next Tuesday is like already, both companies are going to come at the same time and they'll be in each other's way and I'll just look on all innocent like. It's not like I didn't try to schedule different delivery days.

Chad has been on the phone with corporate office and now he wants someone to vent and it looks like I'm the lucky one. I don't really like it when Chad vents, his voice raises and he starts yelling like I can do something about it. I don't like it when people yell at me (though in this case it's indirect) I feel as if people can very reasonably express their opinions in a calm and rational tone.

I've noticed in my weeks here that there are certain unique personalities present in this office. First off is Chad the manager, he typically has three moods. There is angry (which is much yelling), goof off (which means teasing and paper clip throwing) and then there is serious (these are the few moments when he is actually accomplishing work).

Next is Melissa. She is the office manager here and the one I'll be taking over for when she goes on maternity leave. Each morning she comes into the office and immediately commences to her nap with a pillow on her desk. This I can understand seeing as she is seven months pregnant and is suffering horribly from morning sickness. It's not like she has any work to do anyways since I was brought on to do her job, and I'm now fully trained.

Melissa spends her afternoons working through her insurance problems and ordering baby things for the nursery. In fact, a delivery of very cute baby items arrived at the office yesterday. She is having a boy and has decided on a avaitor theme for the room. The room will be full of cute little airplanes all in shades of blue and red. It's actually quite adorable.

Miguel is also in the office occassionally. He is one of the drivers, but mostly does local loads and that gives him time to come into the office to help (though what there is for him to do is a mystery). He is an interesting little man, who speaks english as a second language. Sometimes I have such trouble understanding his english that I just want him to try saying it in spanish and maybe I could understand what he was saying.

Most of the ofter employees are over the road and are rarely in the office. I've met a couple of them, but for the most part my interaction with them is limited to our phone conversations. There are some definite characters in the group and they make my days interesting.

It's now approaching lunch time. This means that the office will order lunch (free lunch everyday) and then procede to the backroom to eat and watch tv. Personally I prefer silence over the tv shows Chad likes to watch, he enjoys the judge shows. Oh, how I hate day time tv!!! I'm of the opinion that these shows bred ignorance and laziness.

The watching of tv manages to occupy atleast two to three hours of our day. This is sad when you do the math on this, I spend ten to fifteen work hours a week watching tv. These are ten to fifteen paid hours, that I sit watching the judge shows. As you tell I don't find this job the most personally fulfilling work I've ever done. The ironic thing is that there are many persons out there who would love this lazy job that I have and that I don't really like.

I should take that last statement back. I like my job for the most part, my co-workers are fun to work with, and the work (when there is some) is enjoyable. It's just not a personally fulfilling job. I don't go home at the end of the day feeling as if I've accomplished something today.

Lunch today is cajun chicken pasta and a cup of chicken encha soup from Chili's.

====================================

The rest of the afternoon went in much the same manner as the morning, and what I had predicted about watching tv for two to three hours.

When I wasn't watching tv that afternoon I was taking care of personal phone calls. It seems that I had stuff to talk over with my Mom. My cousin Jake is bringing some of my belongings out to Utah for me, my Mom wanted me to know how he had packed the stuff into his vehicle. From what my Mom was saying I believe he used a stick to stuff some of my books into a secret compartment...hmmm?? INTRIGUING.

Five o'clock did not come soon enough, but it came. Now it is the weekend and I have two very productive days to make up for a week of "work".

Almost Too Many To Count...

This past Sunday I had the pleasure of meeting Jenny, a very dear woman in her 80's. Jenny is confined to a wheelchair now, but talking with her you soon realize just how much life she really has. She exudes energy, and after hearing some of her life story I can see why God gave one person that much extra energy. In her life Jenny has given birth to 22 children. She went on to tell me that only 14 of her children survived to adulthood. The only thought in my head at that point was, "Is it physically possible to have 22 children?"

After doing some math I conclude that it is not only physically possible but it also means that Jenny spent 16.5 years of her life pregnant. She was quite literally pregnant for that long since none of the children were twins or triplets. Jenny was also married to the same man for all those years and they loved their rather large family. I'm happy that the Lord choose to bless them in that way, but I believe I'll stick with the average 2.5, there's nothing wrong with being average :-)

On another note I found this article online today. I have heard of this family before and I'm glad to see that Mother and baby are all right. It looks like they are well on their way to matching Jenny's numbers.

http://people.aol.com/people/articles/0,19736,1116975,00.html

Like a Little Child...

"He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18: 2-4

http://abcnews.go.com/US/print?id=1205446

From the Photo Gallery...

Further proof that I've always had style. As you can see my sister tries to immulate, but it takes more than just a cute pair of shades. Naw...my sister is stylish she just needed a little more help from me over the years (take the joke Lora).





Okay, this photo was definitely taken in the 80's. I guess it's the clothes that give us away (if only you could see what my shirt says).

I also blame my complete love for chocolate on my parent's who took our family to Hershey Park TWICE for family vacations. Our family also went to the Atlantic Ocean on two separate vacations, which explains my love for seafood.

More photos to come in later installments.

Nerd...Geek...or Dork?

Take the test now...are you a Nerd, Geek or Dork?

http://www.okcupid.com/tests/take?testid=9935030990046738815

My Test Results:

Joe Normal
47 % Nerd, 17% Geek, 8% Dork
For The Record:
A Nerd is someone who is passionate about learning/being smart/academia.
A Geek is someone who is passionate about some particular area or subject, often an obscure or difficult one.
A Dork is someone who has difficulty with common social expectations/interactions.
You scored less than half in all three, earning you the title of: Joe Normal.
This is not to say that you don't have some Nerd, Geek or Dork inside of you--we all do, and you can see the percentages you have right above. This is just to say that none of those qualities stand out so much as to define you. Sure, you enjoy an episode of Star Trek now and again, and yeah, you kinda enjoyed a few classes back in the day. And, once in a while, you stumble while walking down the street even though there was nothing there to cause you to trip. But, for the most part, you look and act fairly typically, and aren't much of an outcast. I'd say there's a fair chance someone asked you to take this test. In any event, fairly normal. Congratulations!

Expanding my Blogger Horizons...

I'd like to to thank www.bloggerandme.blogspot.com for this quote that made me smile:

"There is a fine line between sanity and insanity: I am just trying to stay on the side that has the refrigerator."

Lately, I've been trying to spend more time reading others opinions on life and stuff and less on writing my own observations of the same. Maybe I'll actually learn something this way.

The Good Ol' Days...

As you can tell from this photo I've always had style.

Never Trust a Stranger or Someone Who Drives a Chevy...

My thanks to Lora Beth for this little story:

"A man pulled up next to a lil girl walking home from school and said, 'If you get in, I'll give you a lollipop.' The lil girl kept walking. Following along slowly, the man said, 'Come on get in the car with me and I'll give you two lollipops.' She kept her eyes on the sidewalk and continued on her way. The man said, 'Get in with me and I'll give you the whole bag of lollipops!' Finally the girl turned and said, 'Look Daddy, YOU bought the Chevy, YOU ride in it!'"

Baby's Got Bible...

If you want a good laugh and are willing to put up with a lengthy download time (depending on your connection speed), than this link is for you:

http://www.compfused.com/directlink/615/

Remembering Polygamy of Old...

The following link is in rememberance Joseph Smith's numerous wives. It's a particularly interesting discovery to look at the marriage dates (May 1843 was a particularly busy time for Joe), and which women were already married at the time of their marriage to Smith.

http://www.wivesofjosephsmith.org/

The Tanner's Retirement is Forthcoming...

The following article was written in March of 2003, and even though it's outdated it still holds much truth for the present situation.

http://www.rickross.com/reference/mormon/mormon104.html

The article begins by mentioning the Tanner's plans for future retirement. Unfortunately, since that article was written the individual who would have been taking over their positions has left the ministry (actually he left within the last two weeks). Now the Tanner's find themselves praying for God's guidance as to who should be involved in the ministry after they leave.

Let's be praying for this vital ministry!!

Quotations...

"Love is the beauty of the soul."

"Seek not to understand that you may believe, but believe that you may understand."

"The world is a book and those that do not travel read only one page."

"This is the very perfection of a man, to find out his own imperfections."

"Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe."

"A thing is not necessarily true because badly uttered, nor false because spoken magnificently.

Quotes by Saint Augustine

The Mormon Trinity...

Okay, so the LDS Church has this little doctrine called eternal progression. It reads, "As man is god once was, as god is man may become." Think about that for a second....they believe men are one day able to become gods.

So, I'm online today and I come across someone's (most definitely a non-mormon) comment on what would be the holy ghost interpretation of this doctrine:
"As Casper is, the Holy Ghost once was. As the Holy Ghost is, Casper may become."

Now I'm only left wondering, what is the Jesus version of this doctrine? Maybe I should work on completing the trinity of the doctrine for the LDS Church.

The Investment Paradigm...

I strongly encourage you to read this well written article I found online. The author of this article has hit upon a concept that I've seen in the lives of numerous cult members, this is the first time I've seen a name for this concept..."Investment Paradigm."

http://www.exmormon.org/whylft26.htm

I'm in LOVE...

Okay, so that title was a little misleading, but I do believe that love comes in all shapes and sizes, this particular one looks like a map. That's right I love maps!! This really is an old love of mine, for some reason I've always liked looking at maps.

Maps tend to remind me of all the places I want to visit someday. They could be world maps or just a simple state map. Each map gets me thinking of long trips and unique cultures, or just short day trips that get me home in time to sleep in my own bed.

A couple of years ago I checked out maps on eBay and ended up purchasing several old world maps from back in the early 1900's. These maps are now framed and are awaiting the time when I will hang them on my study wall. The historical maps are also a love of mine, because they remind me of where we've come from (they tell a interesting story).

Recently, I've decided that when I move into my new apartment I will be ordering wall maps of the world, the united states, and one each of Virginia and Utah. Yeppers, this is the purpose of this particular blog, just to share my new idea for a decorating motif. Stylish, ain't it?

Trust and Patience...

I've been working at a Ford Dealership for several weeks now, and I'm very unhappy about it at this point. The work itself doesn't make me unhappy, I actually enjoy being around customers and Ford trucks. It is having to work in a predominately male environment, and having my presence there resented by the men that makes my working hours so unpleasant.

So I've come to a point in my life where I stand at a crossroads and patiently wait for an answer from God. I know that God will lead me where He wants me (at my current job or a new one) and I trust Him in the paths He leads.

The problem in this situation is me. I no longer want to be at a job where I daily face subtle hostility. I'm also struggling with a lack of patience for God's timing. This is really all I have to say on the matter, just that I'm struggling and haven't resolved anything, other than to give it over to God's hands (which isn't always the easiest thing to do). So I trust in the Lord and I await His guidance in patience.

Blatant Plagiarism...

I wanted to share an article with all that I found in the, "Insiders' Guide: Salt Lake City".

A Visitor's Guide to the Local Language

Most Utahns admit it: We talk funny. We're even a little proud of our verbal quirks. To a stranger's ear, many of us (even Salt Lakers) sound like Festus on Gunsmoke - kind of slow, slurred, and drawly. Utahns drop syllables, combine several words into one, insert syllables where none are needed, and inexplicably change the sound of vowels. Thus, fork becomes "fark", fire becomes "far", born becomes "barn," board becomes "bard," spark becomes "spork," study is "steady," and for becomes "fer." Combine the changed vowel with a dropped syllable and you get "fer ignernt," a classic Utahnism that means someone has been rude to you - perhaps a sales clerk who didn't respond quickly enough to your request to "lookit some farmal dresses."

Utahns often insert an extra "t" into words, then hesitate a bit between syllables, such as, "Didja see the new teatchur? She's purty as a pit-chur." Giddyap, cowboy.

Besides pronouncing words strangely, Utahn also have a special vocabulary, much of it derived from the Mormon religious heritage. Mormons take their religion seriously, which is a credit to them, but religious phrases and buzz words are likely to spill over into secular life in both print and conversation. ou'll find that Utahns are forever grateful, blessed, and humble. You might be startled the first time you hear peole calling each other brother and sister. Don't be alarmed: Mormons have big families, but not that big. They're not all related - it's just the traditional way they talk to each other. And elder doesn't refer to a senior citizen. It's a designation, like rank, among Mormon men.

Then there's the issue of Utah swear words. Utahns don't cuss much, but when they do, they're likely to launch verbal hand grenades, most prefaced by "oh," like "fetch," "shoot," "scrud," and "my heck." (Watch out for this one - it indicates extreme anger.) You'll also hear the word "gol" spoken a lot, as in "Gol, VernaLee, wherdja git them gargeous shoes? Fer cuute!"

Various theories have been put forth explaining the origins of our local language. Perhaps it's the combination of peoples from all over the world who moved to Utah to create a distinctive community. Many Utahns trace their ancestry back to Northern Europe, but the mining industry brought in Greeks, Poles, Italians, and Americans from the South, all of whom seasoned the linguistic stew. Maybe it comes from the traditional culture of Utah. Even though most Utahns live in crowded cities, conservative, rural politics dominate the state, and the agrarian way of life is much admired and emulated, including speech. In addition, many of Utah's cultural, religious, and civic leaders come from small towns, and Utahns revere their leaders like no place else. It's natural for the speaking patterns of the rich and powerfl to spread into the general population, which means that everybody ends up talking like a farmer from Southern Utah. Who knows?

Salt Lakers like to think it's the people from small towns who talk like hicks. The truth is, although our accents aren't quite as broad, to someone from Seattle or Kansas City, Salt Lakers sound like the rubes of Green Acres. We may despair and yearn to speak like Lawrence Olivier, but in the end, what the fetch cunna feller do? Some things you just can't escape.

Here is a further example of our uncharacteristic tongue: The granger of Zion Pork zawn spyring. (The grandeur of Zion Park is awe-inspiring.)

He was tard cause he got up surly fer the prayed. (He was tired because he got up so early for the parade.)

I went down to the Macey's for a galna fruit punch anna cord a melk. (I went to Macey's for a gallon of fruit punch and a quart of milk.)

In Store Wores we learn 'bout Dorth Vader 'n' the dork side of the farce. (In Star Wars we learn about Darth Vader and the dark side of the force.)

I git a rill wharm fillin' win I go backta muncle's form. (I get a real warm feeling when I go back to my uncle's farm.)

It's not really a foreign language, though it may seem so, especially to those who speak English as a second language and a few proper-speaking New Englanders. Give yourself a day or two. You'll catch on.

**I share this article because it contains the blunt truth, but doesn't it also remind some of you of a certain local in Western Virginia?**

Pictures for Text...

Someone recently accused me of not posting enough pictures on this site. I'll try to make amends for that oversight at this time, what I can't promise is that they'll be recent photos (I'm far too busy working to take photos). Because of the lack of new photos, I'll put some older ones to good use, for it's always nice to take a look back.

This photo was taken almost three years ago, hard to believe it's been that long now. I'm sure you're probably able to guess that it's the Eiffel Tower in the background. The photo was taken of my friend Ethan and myself. (And now to take a moment to rag on Ethan :-) You asked for photos - You got photos [of you]).

This summer I've missed dreadfully the wonderful hiking that's available back home in Virginia. This photo reminds me of a beautiful Sunday afternoon (a couple years back) when several of the Young Adults from my Church decided to go hiking up on Skyline Drive. The couple in this photo is Andrew (who is away in Africa at this time) and Stephanie (who makes me giggle every time we talk on the phone).

This photo was taken in Lesotho, Africa. These village boys were so proud of their homemade bows and arrows, and wanted me to make sure I got a picture of their handywork. The children I encountered on this trip were one of the richest blessings of the experience. It's been a little over a year now since my time in Africa, but the child still remain so vivid in my memory.
This photo is of my Dad and five of his six sisters. The missing sister was in Williamsburg at the time this photo was taken. My Mom took this picture at a recent family night. Family Night was started about fifteen years ago when my Dad and his sisters decided to get together for food and fellowship. So, every other Thursday night they take turns hosting and providing food, so that all the siblings and cousins can get together and have a good night.

I took this photo last Christmas of my Dad and his eldest sister my aunt Janice. You're eyes are not deceiving you this photo is in black and white. I was on a big black and white film kick at the time. I think it makes the photo look classic, don't you agree? Well, my aunt Janice was the one sister missing from the earlier photo, and I didn't want to leave her out completely.

I think that's all the photos I need to post for the time being. I've covered a lot of the high points, my family, friends and some meaningful places. I hope you all enjoy the splash of color.

I want to thank my sister Lora for this quote:
There are three kinds of men. The one that learns by reading, the few who learn by observation, the rest of them have to pee on the electric fence for themselves.

So today my car was towed to a local repair shop. Since yesterday my car had refused to start. My housemate and tried to start it, and even tried to jump the battery. The tow guy tried to start it, with no luck. I tried to start it many a time. Of course, once I got my car to the shop and the mechanic tried to start it, it started at once.

Now this isn't the first time a vehicle has done this to me. I remember one of my Dad's trucks that would occasionally break down and leave me by the side of the road. In those cases I would try and try to get them going again (with no luck), then the moment my Dad arrived it would start right up for him. Gosh, now I know how to drive, and I especially know how to start a vehicle, so don't give me that, "hmmm??? It wouldn't start???" look.

I have a theory about cars and trucks, they like men better. I'm certain my Dad's truck liked him more than me, and took perverse pleasure in making me look bad. Now my car is getting in on the deal. I believe what happened was that last week during my car inspection my vehicle took a special liking to Ray the mechanic. Now, who is my car going to start for, of course it's going be Ray. If my car could feel emotion it was probably really happy with itself today while it sat there purring for Ray and I stood by quite bewildered.

Is Omission Betrayal?

So I succumbed to popular culture recently, and found myself in front of my t.v. watching the movie, "Little Blackbook." An interesting enough movie, with an all to unexpected ending (I enjoy movies more when they have unexpected endings). The inherent theme of this movie was a particular question, "Is omission betrayal?" In other words, does omitting the truth of a given situation constitute a lie?

To elaborate more fully on this point, I'll discuss the plot of the movie in more detail as an illustration. Male lead character withholds information from current girlfriend regarding previous girlfriends. Current girlfriend is assuaged with curiosity concerning his past relationships and goes on a hunt to learn more details about these women. Current girlfriend learns that a previous girlfriend still has deep feelings for this guy and he still maintains a friendship with this ex-girlfriend. The question becomes then, "Is omission betrayal?"

Was the male lead in this movie betraying the love and trust of his current girlfriend by not mentioning his ongoing friendship with an ex-girlfriend? What a silly question, and I respond with an emphatic, YES!!! Just because he didn't blatantly lie concerning his past relationships, doesn't mean he was being truthful to his current girlfriend.

So why am I so concerned with omissions that make the equivalent of lies? I recently began experiencing my own real life example of such omissions. In my case though there is no romantic involvement, just a dear friendship. What I've deduced through my inward reflections is that true friends share their lives with one another and don't hold back (sometimes even to the point of causing pain).

I'd rather a friend show enough respect for me as a person to share their lives than to hold back what they think would cause pain. Please, don't treat me like a child by assuming I can't handle the truth of the situation. It hurts far more your distrust of me, than the actual information you could have shared (which I found out anyway).

Okay, so I promise my emotional rantings on this site will be reserved to this one posting. If you've read this post all the way through and are completely confused then rest assured you just read something that doesn't pertain to our friendship (though maybe it gave you something to think about in your relationships with others). Though if you read this article and have a sinking feeling you've got some explaining to do, then say a quick prayer and pick up your phone.

One Ugly Ol' Dog Coming Up...

Just thought I would take a moment from my busy week to post an article I stumbled across today. This here is one of those things you have to see for yourself...
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-uglydog15aug15%2C0%2C4501294.story?coll=la-tot-promo&track=pacifictime

That New Car Smell...

Okay, so this isn't so much the new car smell as it is the new truck smell of a 2006 F350 XLT with the Powerstroke V8 diesel engine. Now that's a pretty good smell. It also happens to be the first truck I've sold at my new job. I began working for Larry H. Miller Truckland on August 3rd. Actually I began sales training on August 3rd and they got me on the showroom floor this past Monday, August 8th.

It has been a busy and often times confusing week. I don't always know or understand what I'm doing, but I'm learning gradually. There's a process to selling a vehicle and I'm beginning to grasp all the different aspects. It'll probably take me a couple more weeks before it starts feeling like second nature.

They say though that the first sell is always the hardest, so I was overjoyed when I sold my first truck last night. It's a great feeling when you're able to hand the keys over to the new owner and watch them drive off the lot. To see a smile on their face and watch them take a deep breath of that new truck smell.

Yesterday, I drove north of Salt Lake City to a beautiful canyon near Layton, Utah. I wasn't by myself in this adventure, I had the companionship of my dear friend Maija. It was actually Maija's idea for the hike, she had read that this particular spot had the most gorgeous wildflowers that peaked the first week in August. This being the first week in August it was as good a time as any to see these beautiful flowers.


The scenery was amazing on this trip. First off, the drive out to our hiking spot was wonderful. After we reached Layton everything north was canyon driving. To my amazement everything was green, not at all like Salt Lake City and it's brown grass. I'm told that all the trees and extra vegetation has a way of generating more rain amounts in those areas. All I know is that I saw lakes, ponds, streams, meadows, peaked mountains, beautiful trees, and lovely wildflowers. And that doesn't even begin to mention the wildlife we encountered along the way. I should have known where there is that many wildflowers there would be an abundance of bees...YIKES!!! At first all the buzzing of the bees had me a little unnerved, but eventually I accepted their presence. What I didn't accept was the flies that were in the area, they were vicious things that bite meriously. Unfortunately, I have several red welt marks to prove how painful and pesky these flies were.

For the most part, Maija and I were good about staying on the designated trail, but when we came to this lovely field of wildflowers we had to venture off the path for a few photos. Actually these photos show Maija alone venturing off trail, I'm leaving the incriminating photos of me off this site.

Mormon Plan of Eternal Progression...

Terminology Differences Between LDS and the Bible

by: Sandra Tanner

GODHEAD
LDS: Father and Son are resurrected men with physical bodies. Holy Ghost is a separate man with a spiritual body. Three totally separate Gods. God is married. Other Gods for other worlds.
Bible: God is not a man. He has always been God. Only one God.

JESUS CHRIST
LDS: Literally our elder brother, born to Heavenly Parents in the premortal life. Jesus, Lucifer and humans are all the same species and are brothers and sisters.
Bible: Fully God, not a subordinate deity. Eternal.

PREMORTAL LIFE
LDS: Teach that everyone existed in heaven before born on earth. We have existed eternally.
Bible: Only Christ before mortality, not man. Our existence started on earth.

THE FALL
LDS: Fall was a blessing. It brought mortality, ability to have children and physical death. Adam was given conflicting commandments and was supposed to fall.
Bible: God intended obedience. God tempts no one. Man is sinful.

VIRGIN BIRTH
LDS: Believe God, as a resurrected, physical man, is literal Father of Jesus - same manner in which men are conceived on earth. Believe Matthew 1:18 is in error.
Bible: Mary was "with child of the Holy Ghost."

SIN
LDS: Specific acts, not man's basic nature. Must know act is wrong to be a sin.
Bible: We are in spiritual rebellion until conversion. We do not just commit sins; we are basically sinful.

FORGIVENESS
LDS: Granted at end of process of repentance and reformed behavior.
Bible: Complete forgiveness granted the moment we turn to Christ.

SALVATION BY GRACE
LDS: Believe Christ's death brought release from grave and universal resurrection. Salvation by grace is universal resurrection. Beyond this, man must earn his place in heaven. Saved by grace after all we can do.
Bible: Salvation is not limited to universal resurrection but gift of God to those who believe.

REDEEMED
LDS: From mortal death only. Not same at Eternal Life.
Bible: Redeemed from more than mortal death; redeemed from spiritual death & given Eternal Life.

GOSPEL
LDS: Doctrines and commandments of the LDS Church. True gospel restored by Joseph Smith.
Bible: Good news of Christ's death and resurrection as atonement for our sins.

BORN AGAIN
LDS: Baptism into the LDS Church.
Bible: We are spiritually dead until our spiritual birth.

TRUE CHURCH
LDS: Only the Mormon Church. The true church was taken from the earth until Joseph Smith restored it.
Bible: Not an organization; as born-again Christians we are part of God's Church.

AUTHORITY-PRIESTHOOD
LDS: Believe only LDS have authority to baptize, ordain, etc. Have two-part system of priesthood - Melchizedek and Aaronic.
Bible: Christ brought end to Aaronic priesthood and is the only High Priest after the manner of Melchizedek.

BAPTISM
LDS: Must abe performed by LDS priesthood.
Bible: Emphasis is on Believer - not on priesthood authority.

SONS OF GOD
LDS: We were all born in heaven, prior to earth, as literal spirit children of God and his wife.
Bible: Spiritually adopted at conversion.

ETERNAL LIFE
LDS: Exaltation in Celestial Kingdom; godhood and ability to bear children in heaven. Must have a temple recommend and be sealed in Mormon temple.
Bible: Not limited to certain ones in the top part of heaven. No mention of parenthood or temple marriage but is given to all true believers.

IMMORTALITY
LDS: Universal gift. The ability to go to heaven and live forever but not same as Eternal Life. Lower level of heaven and unable to bear children.
Bible: Makes no distinction between immortality and eternal life. No second class citizens in heaven.

HELL
LDS: Hell as an institution is eternal - inmates come and go as in jail, but do not spend eternity there. Temporary. After debt is paid they will go to the Telestial Kingdom.
Bible: No mention of people getting out of Hell.

HEAVEN
LDS: Divided into three kingdoms - Celestial, Terrestial and Telestial. A place for almost everyone.
Bible: Only mentions two conditions - everlasting punishment or eternal life.

KINGDOM OF GOD
LDS: Means Celestial Kingdom. Only those in the Celestial Kingdom are in God's presence. Those in the Terrestial or Telestial Kingdoms are not in the presence of the Father.
Bible: All redeemed will be in God's presence.

Don't Waste Your Life...

There is cost in being a disciple of Christ. Let us take courage, and give our lives fully to Him and receive the greater reward. Let us not continue in wasting our lives.

If you need some encouragement on the matter take a moment to listen to this sermon online:

http://resources.christianity.com/libertybaptist/talkInfo.jhtml?id=63242&JServSessionIdroot=kt785whf91

Only a Man Would Come Up With That...

So I've been filling some of my free time lately by researching the Mormon Church. Though I seem to have a good grasp on doctrines and beliefs, it seems I learn something new every day about the LDS. Since moving to Utah most of the insights I've made have been about Mormon culture. I've always found other cultures fascinating and the Mormon culture is no exception. These people have their own foods, sayings, holidays, games, and oh so much more. I'm sure I could live hear the rest of my life and still not have it all figured out (especially since I don't plan on joining their Church).

Okay, enough about Mormon culture, what I really want to share today is the LDS doctrine of EXALTATION. The doctrine of exaltation sums up LDS beliefs in one neat little sentence, "The goal of every devout LDS couple is to become a god and goddess exactly like their Heavenly Father and Mother." And this is why marriage (specifically temple marriage) is so important to a Mormon. It is also why the average marriage age in the state of Utah is between 19 and 22. There is a definite pressure for young people to settle down in a committed marriage and begin to having the multiple children they're told is their responsibility to bring into the world.

So I know the doctrine of exaltation in and out, it's nothing new to me. But today I was doing some more reading on the LDS Church, and I came across a passage that worded this doctrine in a way I had never thought of before. It's amusing and simply outrageous all at the same time, and you can thank Daniel Thompson for his perspective.

He writes, "Every LDS man who has been deemed worthy will then become a god. The people of his world will one day worship and pray to him just as the people of this world worship and pray to our Heavenly Father. Every LDS god will have many celestial wives who will aid him in populating his world. Therefore, the fate of every LDS woman who earns the right to be called a goddess is to be eternally pregnant, producing multitudes of spirit babies for her husband god."

Let's think about this statement for a moment *PAUSE*. Here's a religion that believes worthy men will one day become gods, with their earthly children bowing to them in worship and prayer. Hmmmm...and the women get WHAT?? Oh that's right, to be ETERNALLY PREGNANT!!!

Not that I have anything against pregnancy or populating the world with a child or two of my own someday, but COME ON give me a break, ETERNALLY PREGNANT!!! What woman in her right mind wants to live all of blessed eternity pregnant. And we're talking "multitudes of spirit babies". Who do you think is going to care for these "spirit babies" before they have earthly bodies? I'll make a bet it's not the guy who's being worshiped and adored by millions.

So, I don't believe for a second this is how heaven is, or that god was once a man himself who was deemed worthy to become a god. My sympathies do go out to all those thousands of LDS women who truly have been deceived into believing that this is what God has for them. That their whole lives here on earth and in heaven are reduced to their ability to bring forth children. I grieve for these women, that are only able to look forward to an eternity of pleasing a "heavenly husband" and bringing forth "spiritual babies". These women who are not able to find peace on earth or in the idea of heaven.

Utah State Holidays...

Pioneer Day - July 24
Utah holiday commemorating the Mormon pioneers entering the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847. Celebrated by chuckwagon breakfasts, parades, picnics, and fireworks.

Well, look what day it is. Here I am in the midst of my first Pioneer Day, and quite an experience it is. This holiday is taken very serious indeed by the residents of Utah (well only the LDS). I've seen more fireworks and outdoor BBQ's in this past weekend than I saw the weekend of July 4th, which is saying very much.

So what I've learned from this experience is just how prevalent the LDS faith is in the culture and lifestyle of Utah. As there is hardly any difference in the separation of Church and State within the borders of Utah, the same goes for the LDS culture and state culture (i.e. holidays, festivals and the like). Mormons are so deeply rooted and all compassing that the state of Utah will probably always be seen as their sanctuary.

Sunrise in Salt Lake City

This photo is an early morning view from my bedroom window. The fact that I was up and attentive at this hour is a true surprise to not only me, but I'm sure the rest of you who know me so well. And once you hear my reasoning for being up at this unseemly hour (and the fact that I went forth with my plan despite wanting another hour of sleep) you'll think I've lost it.

Because for reasons beyond me I decided late last night that I wanted to participate in a water aerobics class at my gym. The only problem with this kind of decision is that the only classes offered in water aerobics are held at 5:45 a.m. (YAWN!!) But I made the decision and I set the alarm clock for 5:00 a.m. with all the best of intentions. For one thing I've learned about myself through the years is that very little motivates me to arise from bed before the sun itself has yet fully arisen.

To my surprise it wasn't that difficult to get myself out of bed and moving this morning. In fact I only hit the snooze button once before rousing myself completely, which is quite an accomplishment just ask any of my former roommates. I even found myself at the gym about ten minutes early for the class so I decided to make good use of the whirlpool.

Getting into the nice warm whirlpool wasn't the brightest idea I ever had, it just made getting into the nice cool pool even more difficult ten minutes later. The class itself wasn't bad, the other woman were quite enjoyable company (yeah that's right no men, for some reason they can't handle water aerobics). I found that the chlorine didn't bother me too much, since my head was above water the whole time.

It wasn't until I was back home that I realized what a workout you can get from water resistance. I'm absolutely and completely tired and my arms in particular feel like dead weight. That's okay who really needs functioning arms anyway, especially when all I have to do today is answer phones for some company...phone up to my ear...phone down to the cradle...up...down...up...down...I'm sure I'll survive.

Another Camera in the Family...

Today is my Mom's Birthday, HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM, I Love You!! I won't go spreading her age here, because for some reason I don't think she would appreciate that. It really doesn't matter much because my Mom looks absolutely beautiful and youthful as anyone I've ever seen her age.

And now you're curious as to why I have a picture of some guy (this guy happens to be my brother, Brent) posted and I'm talking of my Mom. Well, it just so happens that my Mom took this picture with her new digital camera, which she got for her birthday. That makes the second camera to be added to our family in less than a week.

I'm using this posting to demonstrate to my Mom that technology is pretty cool. I mean just think about it, she took this picture back in Virginia a couple of hours ago and emailed it to me out here in Utah, and now I've uploaded on to my blogger for all the world to see. Which reminds me: "Hello World, this is my single brother, ain't he handsome?" (You can thank me later Brent).

A Night on the Town...

Okay, so I realize that this photo is a little dark. In my defense it was around mid-night when I had the genius of capturing this gorgeous fountain. This particular fountain is located in a fancy little strip mall called Jordan's Landing. This isn't but a ten minute drive from where I live, and absolutely any major shopper's dream haven. What I've found most to my liking about Jordan's Landing is the centralized location of all my favorite stores. It's been most ideal to be able to jet in and out and be done with all my shopping (which I view more as a chore) in the shortest amount of time.

Back to the fountain, this one in particular is certainly one of my favorites. Though you can't tell from the photo it is made up entirely of tiny bits of mosaic tile, which reminds me of the colorful art work of Spain. To add to the atmosphere of this fountain is a cozy little plaza with outdoor dining areas and live music. Spending time there is like being back in Europe, and especially reminds me of my time in Spain when I took more time for plazas and a nice cafes.

It's a certainty that I'll be spending more of my summer evenings by this fountain with a delicious cup of hot tea, a good book and some great live music. I mean who could pass up a relaxing little haven like this one.

Church Fellowship...

Shortly after my arrival in Salt Lake City I began attending Church at a Christian and Mission Alliance Church (CMA) by the name of Discovery Christian Community. The fellowship and the love of Christ that I've experienced from the other believers there has just been such a blessing. So I thought I would take some time to introduce you to a few of my new friends from Discovery Christian. The picture to the right is of (names from left to right) Cami, Danielle [pronounced da-nell], Micheala, and Ally. Danielle who is standing slightly behind the rest of the girls is the female youth sponsor for Discovery Christian. In this picture each of the girls (with the exception of Danielle) have tamed down their hair to it's natural color, which is something of a surprise since I'm use to seeing a rainbow of purples, pinks, blondes, reds and greens. Hair color in this group is definitely a matter of daily or weekly preference.

This next photo is one of Pastor Steve Meltzer. Here, he's taking affirmation from Danielle on the day's message. Since my arrival at Discovery Christian the study focus has been on the 10 Commandments, today it was number 6, "Thou shall not murder." I've been impressed with the way in which Pastor Steve is able to present God's Word, it's always very relevant to our times and situations.

This last photo on the right is of Tommy who is relatively new to Discovery Christian. He came into the Church this past fall to begin as the new youth pastor. He started with two youth about ten months ago and now he has an average of 12-15 attending each week. All I have to say is, How Amazing is God!!! Tommy has a real enthusiasm and love for young people and God's just using those gifts to bring people to Christ.

There are so many other wonderful and loving people I've met at Discovery Christian, and I look forward to introducing you to them all over the next weeks and months (if only through pictures).

Here's To You, emily kate...

So for those of you who are of a highly curious nature and have been after me from Day 1 for pictures of my life in Utah this is for you. If you haven't already made the simple assumption this photo is the home where I live. I will take a moment to point out various nuances that you might find interesting. For starters the lack of green grass. I do indeed miss the color green, especially where it should be covering the ground. More importantly I miss rain and cloudy days. I've grown rather accustomed to the weather here, for it is fairly predictable. One should always expect bright sunny days with highs in the upper 90's or reaching triple digits. The sky is always a nice shade of blue with a scattering of white fluffy clouds. Humidity is practically non-existent, so one can usually endure the high temperatures with relative ease.

Another point of interest you'll find in this photo is contraption coming from the roof that looks rather like a chimney (no I'm not speaking of the t.v. attenae). That box like structure is actually referred to out here as a swamp cooler. It is the replacement of the standard air-conditioning unit that most homes back east maintain. The function of the swamp cooler is to blow in the dry air from outdoors and pass it through a cold water system that produces a steady stream of cold air indoors. Personally, I find this system lacking (though Utah natives are particularly fond of their swamp coolers) in that the steady stream of air is only delivered to one local in the home. In the case of my residence it is the stairs leading to the upper bedrooms that receive this steady stream of frigid air. It is almost unbearably cold to be anywhere near the stairs with the swamp cooler turned on and at the same time it is almost unbearably warm in my bedroom. I solve this problem by leaving my window ajar and having a fan continually at work in my room. The only time of the day that the fan cannot compete with the heat is the early morning when the sun comes shining through my bedroom window, which faces the east side. I have found it by far more pleasant to become an early riser than to endure the first sweaty morning hours.


Speaking of my bedroom window this photo was taken from there just today. Now you have an idea of the quaint sub-burban neighborhood in which I reside. The mountains in the back ground were not as clear the day I took this photo, but you might still be able to see the snow that slightly covers the peaks of them (and this is mid-July). I love the view from my window and spend the evening hours admiring the sunset from the west and how the colors reflect off the east mountains (which are the mountains in the picture).


My home is located near two points of interest, the first and my favorite is the Olympic Oval. This building was the home of the 2002 Winter Olympics speed skating competitions. For me to walk down the corridors of this building is like stepping into a precious piece of history. To skate on the ice of this building is knowing you're gliding where great athletes have been before. It's a truly awe-inspiring experience for someone who appreciates skating as much as I do.


The second (and probably most familiar) point of interest is the local airport. Ironically enough I live near by to a rather small airport about the size of the airport near by parent's home where I spent my growing up years. It's still a comforting sound to hear the small planes fly by my home. This photo is one I took of several planes stationed in their hanger. This airport might even be a larger operation than the one back home since there are several more hangers than the one I was able to photograph here. My appeal to this photo is the idealic mountains in the background, it doesn't get much better than that.


This final photo I dub "my self-portrait". For as much as I enjoy the comforting sound of small aircraft over my neighborhood I have become rather annoyed by the larger jets that fly directly overhead as they come in for a landing at the Salt Lake City International Airport not so far north of where I live. I believe I've learned all the major carriers by their colors and symbols, so that when they fly overhead I know if it is Delta or American Airlines without too much trouble. I'm sure this is a skill I'll be able to take far in life.

For all these photos in my update you should give credit to my new digital camera that I purchased today. I know that the photos aren't the best, but I've never claimed to be a stellar photographer, that and I'm still practicing on my new camera. I'm sure there will be quite a number of more photos to come in the next while, so keep checking back for my updates.

Another Housemate Moving Out...

So I move into this wonderful, and as you can tell well lite home in Utah. At first it was the place that everyone came and hung out at, but shortly after I arrive people began moving out (I've been assured this fact has nothing to do with me) for bigger and better places. This picture is of Brian one of my now former housemates who decided that his presence was no longer needed in our home. I captured this picture of him packing up his pots and pans.

The house has become rather quiet for at this time only myself and one other person is in residence. This situation is fine with me since my rent has remained the same and I've begun having a little more privacy. This still doesn't change the fact that I myself am looking to move out. I find that the location is less than ideal for commuting around the Salt Lake Valley. At this time I'm looking for a two bedroom apartment that is closer to the freeway system to help cut down on my driving time.

At the Heart of the Matter...

Since moving to Utah I find myself increasingly frustrated by the "follow without questioning" mindset of the majority here. Persons I encounter will often spout out their opinions or beliefs and when I set about questioning the reason as to why they hold such views, they seldom have a justifiable answer for me.

The simple answer for this lack of reasoning on their parts is not because they don't authentically believe what they are sharing with me, it's more or less because their beliefs are not truly their own. This is especially true when it comes to spiritual matters in the LDS Church. Mormons are so spoon fed in their faith that they've begun passingly accepting anything taught by the Church officials.

It's even more sinister than one might first think. Not only do Mormons have an attitude of open acceptance, they are also blatantly refusing to question anything offered by the Church officials. It's generally seen as a weakness/disobedience of faith to question anything of the Church. It could also mean quick ex-communication to be found voicing strong questions or opinions that oppose the LDS Church.

These serious problems inevitably lead a Mormon to only one certain conclusion, that their faith is justifiable by the LDS Church alone. These sadly, deceived individuals aren't able to provide poinant answers to my questions since the reasons for their beliefs aren't rooted in Christ alone. Instead of being able to point to the one figure (Jesus Christ) who justifies all who believe in Him; they are forced to point to the one thing that gives rationalization to their beliefs, the LDS Church.

I use these terms justification and rationalization simply because of an amusing comment I read today by Brendan:

"who needs justification when you have rationalization?"

The comment made me think how often individual's in the LDS Church use rationalization because they have no justification for what they believe. This I find very sad and disheartening. So, my answer to this simple questions is, Mormons need justification and not rationalization. Let us be out in the world telling those about the justification we have in Christ Jesus.

"The Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:18-20

Pride and Prejudice and Utah Customs...

Being that I'm particularly fond of Jane Austen and her work, it's no real surprise that I find myself writing on the subject of Pride and Prejudice. Recently I made the discovery of the modern-day 2003 film version of Pride and Prejudice. I found myself enjoying this version, though it didn't follow the book as true to form as other films I've seen on the book.

When the film began a vague sense of familiarity settled over me. In the beginning I couldn't place the reasons why this version in particular seemed so familiar, but as events took place it became quite apparent. It was the scenery that seemed most familiar in the film, and so I wasn't surprised when a reference was made to the location being Utah.

The more I thought on the subject the more convinced I was that the location for the film was quite appropriate. It's ironic how appropriate it would be for a modern-day Pride and Prejudice plot to have occurred in Utah. For starters, in no other state in the union except Utah would a woman be considered so much an old maid at age 24 that she could play a convincing Elizabeth. Also, there is the proximity of Salt Lake City, Utah to Las Vegas that works in the plot's favor of Kitty's elopment. It being commonly understood here as a tragedy in Mormon circles when young couples drive off to Las Vegas to be married rather than hold ceremonies in the Temple.

What I noticed most about this version in comparison to location and plot of the novel is that the Church reference is definitely Latter-Day Saint. In several instances in the film, references are made to Church and in each case it involves the virtues of the Mormon faith or scripture taught by the LDS Church. These references to the LDS Church are not exactly in tune to anything in Jane Austen's novel, but they are interesting nuances to be able to pick up on.

Overall, I felt it was very appropriate to place the setting of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice in Utah. After spending quite some time now in Salt Lake City I understand how applicable the novel truly is to this area and culture. For as Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy lived in their own peculiar culture and society, so do many Mormons out here in good ol' Utah.

Sharing Your Faith with Latter-Day Saints

**Continuation of Previous Post**

By Sandra Tanner

True Church?

Mormons will often say that the Christian world is too divided to have the truth. Yet there have been over 100 different churches claiming Joseph Smith as their founder. (See the book Divergent Paths of the Restoration.) Many of them have totally different beliefs from the others. Obviously, LDS scriptures did not solve the problem of division.

However, the Christian looks to such verses as Matt. 18:20 where Christ promised that where two or three are gathered in His name, He is in the midst of them. The Mormon does not understand the Christian concept of all believers constituting the church. In Eph. 2:20-22 Paul points out that Christians "are built upon the foundation of the apotles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord; in whom mye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit." Thus the question is not whether you are member of the right denomination but are you trusting Christ's atonement to make you right with God?

A Prophet?

Another area for discussion is the need for a prophet. You might ask the Mormon:

I've been told that LDS people believe God is continually giving new revelation to their prophet. How do you guard against false teachings?

If your prophet gave a revelation that differed from church teachings in the past, how do you determine which to follow?

Christians hold their ministers accountable to the Bible. (see Galatians 1:7-12, and 1 John 4:1) The early Christians compared Paul's teachings with the Old Testament in Acts 17:11-12. What is the standard for Mormons?

They may counter with something like: "God has promised he will never let the prophet lead us astray." Then why is there provisions made in the Doctrine and Covenants Sec. 107:81-83 to replace a fallen prophet? Jesus warned about false prophets in Matt. 24:11 and 24.

Mormons point to Amos 3:7 to prove that God will always have a prophet leading the church. However, this is taking the verse out of context. God promised that he would not send judgment without giving a warning first through a prophet.

If only the president of the LDS Church can receive revelation for the church, why are the books of the New Testament written by different people? Even Mormons agree Paul was never the head of the church. Shouldn't the apostles of Mormonism be as authoritative as Paul?

How many false prophecies could a prophet give and still be a true prophet? In Deut. 18:20-22 God declares that all his prophecies must come true.

If Mormons don't accept all the doctrines of their prophets and apostles, how does on know which teachings to accept and which ones to reject? They usually counter that you know through prayer. But don't their apostles pray before preaching? How can a lay member expect to get greater discernment than those ordained by God? Can the Mormon cite an example of a doctrine that their prophet or apostles taught which they can openly reject?

If you bring up a doctrinal issue with Brigham Young's Adam-God doctrine they will often counter that that was Young's personal idea and not official doctrine even though he taught it from the pulpit. Then what constitutes "official doctrine"? The Mormon will usually counter that doctrine must be voted on by the church and canonized. Doesn't this establish that one of their prophets could give a false revelation? Then couldn't he lead the people astray?

Another question is why does the Doctrine and Covenants only have four sections by prophets other than Joseph Smith? Why has no revelation been added since 1978? Is God no longer giving revelation to their president as He did in the beginning?

If a Mormon says that their prophets still get revelations, ask where they are printed. Why don't they canonize them? Are they approaching a closed canon concept?

Need More Than Atonement?

Mormons will often say, "Why can't you accept us as Christians? We believe in Jesus as our savior." However, there are problems with both their definition of "saved" and their concept of Jesus.

Mormonism limits the result of the Fall, saying that it brought mortality but not a sinful nature as man is supposed to be a god in embryo. They limit the atonement, saying it brought resurrection (or immortality) to all, but to go on to "eternal life" or "exaltation" one must be a faithful Mormon thus adding works to grace. They believe they commit sin but don't understand man's basic sin-nature.

They make a distinction between being "saved" (resurrected to some level of heaven) and having "eternal life" (exaltation, godhood). A good example of the Mormon concept of the atonement is found in a parable by Apostle Boyd Packer in Gospel Principles, pp. 75-77, 1997 ed. According to his parable, Christ's atonement was like someone refinancing your huge debt. Your friend pays off the loan for your but you then must make payments to him. From this parable we see that Mormons do not see the atonement as a total payment for their sins, they must continue to make payments. Jesus has only refinanced the loan. Thus the atonement was necessary but did not fulfill all that was required for eternal life. Apostle Packer's story is helpful in contrasting the Mormon concept of the atonement with that of the Bible.

When discussing grace with them you could also ask about 2 Nephi 25:23, "by grace we are saved, after all we can do."

If grace only applies after all you can do, how do you know when you have done enough? Have you truly done ALL you could do? If not, then it would seem that grace would not apply. That is why a Christian rejoices in grace (unmerited favor) as presented in the Bible.

We need to explain that good works are a result of grace, no a way to achieve it (Gal. 5:22-23 and Eph. 2). One doesn't earn or pay for a gift. You will need to explain that grace is not a license to sin, that those who truly love God will want to please Him.

Since Mormonism teaches that almost everyone will be saved (resurrected) to some level in heaven, how do they reconcile that with Matt. 7:13-14? Jesus taught that only a few would gain heaven. They seem to have reversed the broad way and the narrow way.

Temples and High Priests?

There are over a hundred LDS temples around the world in which they perform their baptisms for the dead, endowments and eternal marriage ceremonies for both the living and dead. A question to ask your Mormon friend is:

If a temple marriage is necessary for eternal life, why isn't it ever mentioned in the Bible (or the Book of Mormon)? Jesus taught that there would be no marriages in heaven (see Luke 20:34)

Can you show me a verse in the Bible (or Book of Mormon) where baptisms or marriages were ever performed in the temple?

Where in the Bible is the teaching that there are to be thousands of High Priests in the Christian church? Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament priesthood and is now the only High Priest in the Christian church. (see Heb. 4:4; 7:26; and 9:11)

Eternal Life

Mormonism teaches that in order to gain eternal life (as opposed to merely entering heaven) one must be "worthy." It is achieved after a life of full activity in Mormonism, full tithing, temple marriage, etc. So a question to ask your friend is:

What is required to achieve eternal life in Mormonism?

Have you met all of those requirements?

If you died today do you know that you will have eternal life?

Point out that the Christian have the assurance of eternal life through faith in Christ, not church activity (see 1 John 5:13).

Nature of God

Mormonism teaches a totally different concept of God. However, rather than trying to explain the trinity to them, I focus on the basic nature of God the Father. Joseph Smith taught that God was once a mortal on some other world, which was ruled by yet another deity. (See Smith's sermon on the nature of God in History of the Church, vol. 6 pp. 302-317, or Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pp. 312, 342-354, 370-373) Each god rose from mortality to immortality and earned the position of a god. He does not surpass the previous god, but is forever under his direction. It is sort of like an eternal pyramid system, or escalator, with each god answering to the one above him. If the Mormon denies this teaching ask him if he has read Smith's sermons on God. If Smith's doctrine of God is wrong he falls under the condemnation of Deuteronomy 13, a false prophet leading the people after a false god. How do they reconcile Smith's doctrine of multiple gods with Isaiah 43:10-11 and Isaiah 44:8?

A Testimony?

The Mormon will often say that he know the LDS Chuch is true from prayer and inner conviction. We need to point out that people all over the world have come up with different beliefs about God. Obviously sincerity and prayer are not enough to guard against false claims. That is why God has given us the Bible, so that we will have a standard measurement for truth claims. You might ask them:

If you were lost in the woods would you trust your feelings or use a compass? Christians use the Bible to determine truth, not feelings.

We don't need to pray to know if we should rob a bank, or commit adultery, since God has already spoken on the issue. Thus we see that if someone claims a revelation contrary to what God has already spoken, we can know that it is a false teaching. Thus if Joseph Smith taught anything different from the Bible, like plural gods, he should be rejected (Gal. 1:8-9 and Deut. 13).

While Christians value prayer and seek direction from God, this is not the Biblical method of testing a prophet. Every leader and doctrine must be examined in light of the Bible.

Conclusion

Remember that your life is already a witness to your LDS friends, one way or another. If they say you would make a good Mormon, take comfort. Your lifestyle is seen to be consistent with your claim to be a Christian, they just want to give you the rest of the gospel.

Challenge them to study the Bible (Acts 17:11-12). If Mormonism is a restoration of Christ's church, it will agree with what God has already revealed. Challenge them to think for themselves. Truth will stand up to investigation.

A Mormon quickly senses if you are talking from genuine concern and conviction, or if you just want an argument. Check your motives and attitude (see 2 Tim. 2:23-26 and Titus 3:2-9). As ambassadors for Christ we are to share His love and redemption.

"Always be full of joy in the Lord;...Let everyone see that you are unselfish and considerate in all you do." (Philippians 4:4-5, Living Bible)

Sharing Your Faith with Latter-Day Saints

By Sandra Tanner

One of the most important factors in sharing your faith with a Mormon (officially known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) is your sincere friendship. Usually former LDS tell me that they had a close friend that talked to them about the Lord. This friend acted as a bridge between Mormon assumptions and explaining what the Bible actually says.

Usually Mormons will already view themselves as Christians and will accept you as one as well. However, they would see you as only having one fourth of the gospel while they have the whole package. Your faith in Christ according to them, assures you of a place in heaven. However, in order to go to the highest part of heaven, the Celestial Kingdom (godhood, exaltation), you would need to have a Mormon baptism and a Mormon temple marriage. They believe that if you don't join the LDS Church during this life you will be given a chance to accept it during the millennium.

Remember that they view you as the one with the defective belief system. You have only the Bible (which accounts for your "limited" understanding) while they have additional light from their other scriptures, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price. Beyond this, they also have the teachings of their prophets.

Keep in mind that we are part of a process. Paul wrote: "I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase." (1 Cor. 3:6) It may take several encounters with various Christians before the Mormon will seriously start re-evaluating his/her beliefs. Pray that God will continue to bring Christians into the Mormon's life.

Terminology Differences

It is important to learn how Christian terms have been redefined Mormonism. If you went as a missionary to China you would learn their language and something about their customs. We should do the same with those embracing the LDS system. Don't assume the Mormon uses Christian terms the same as you do. Their definitions of God, salvation, eternal life, heaven, etc. are very different.

Persecution?

When opportunities arise for you to talk with Mormons about their beliefs, remember to show them the same respect and courtesy you would expect from them. Be sure to display confidence (not arrogance) in what you discuss. Mormons tend to interpret any timidity as evidence that you do not speak with the authority of God.

Since Mormons tend to feel any challenge to their Church is a form of persecution we must be careful how we approach them so that it will not reinforce this perception.

Joseph Smith claimed in his first vision which is printed at the back of their Pearl of Great Price, that God informed him all other churches were "wrong" and that "all their creeds were an abomination in his sight." Since Smith was the one who first attacked all other churches, we are simply responding to his charges. Merely comparing belief systems is not "persecution."

Importance of the Book of Mormon?

Mormons will often ask people if they have read the Book of Mormon and prayed about it. They assume that if someone believed it he would accept the rest of Mormonism. Here are a few questions to ask:

Since the Introduction to the Book of Mormon states that it contains "the fulness of the everlasting gospel" can you give me verses that teach the doctrines of pre-earth existence, plural gods with wives, temple marriage, chance to repent after you die, temple rituals for the dead, three levels of heaven, etc.?

Where do I find your concept of eternal marriage in the Book of Mormon? (It isn't in there - it's in the D&C, sec. 132.)

If you truly believe the Book of Mormon, doctrinally, how do you accept the Doctrine and Covenants or Pearl of Great Price since these books teach different concepts?

Why do Mormons approach people with the Book of Mormon if it doesn't contain their most important doctrines? Why don't they give out copies of their other scriptures instead of the Book of Mormon?

This gives us a chance to talk about the value of the Book of Mormon, as opposed to the Bible. Ask them:

What specific doctrine of Mormonism is in the Book of Mormon that isn't in the Bible?

Which Bible?

The Book of Mormon declares that the Bible has been deliberately altered (see 1 Nephi 13:26-28). Mormons will often point to all the different translations of the Bible as proof that it has been changed. You can ask them something like -

Does translation always lessen scripture's value or change its teaching?

What about the Book of Mormon? How many translations have been made of it? Is it less reliable in French or German?

Does the church put a disclaimer on the Book of Mormon in other languages as they do with the Bible? If not, why not?

If professional LDS translators can reliably take the English Book of Mormon into French, why can't professional translators take the Greek New Testament into English?

If the Bible is in such bad shape, which verses are wrong, so I won't use them?

Mormons will often claim the Bible is incomplete, that various books have been left out of our current Bible.

Why doesn't your prophet restore the lost books or correct the translation?

If your prophet has not felt the need to restore these missing books of the Bible how important can they be?

Which books were left out? Which ones should be added?

Joseph Smith did a revised version of the Bible, why doesn't the LDS Church print it? They print extracts from it at the back of their Bible - why not use the whole thing? Smith did not add any lost books to his revision. In fact, he left out the book Song of Solomon.

Remind them that even though we don't have all the words of Jesus, John assured us that we have all the we need to know about gaining eternal life (see John 20:30-31). Also, Jesus promised "Heaven and Earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away." (Matthew 24:35)

If Mormonism is a restoration of original Christianity they would need to demonstrate that LDS doctrines were originally in the Bible but later deleted. However, there is no manuscript evidence of revisions of the New Testament that eliminated cardinal doctrines. Also, the scripture quotes in the writings of the early church fathers show that there were no doctrinal changes. A good book on the reliability of the Bible is The New Testament Documents: Are They Reliable, by F.F. Bruce, Inter-Varsity Press.

Total Apostasy?

Mormonism asserts that in Smith's first vision he was told that there had been a total apostasy of the Christian church and that he was to be God's instrument in restoring it to the earth. While the Bible speaks of people falling away from the truth, it never indicates that there would be a total apostasy. Mormons often misuse 1 Timothy 4:1 which says that "in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils." Notice that the verse merely indicates "some" would depart from the faith, not that there would be a total apostasy. You might ask your friend something like this:

How could there have been a total apostasy of the church since Jesus promised that "the gates of hell shall not prevail against it"? (Matt. 16:18) Jesus also promised, "lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." (Matt. 28:20)

Another problem with the LDS claim of a total apostasy is their own teaching that John, one of Christ's twelve apostles, did not die (see D&C 7:1-3) but was to remain on the earth to "prophesy before nations." Besides John, three of the twelve disciples in the Book of Mormon were granted their desire to remain on earth, to "bring the souls of men unto me," until Christ's return (Book of Mormon, 3 Nephi 28:6-9). With four apostles remaing on the earth, how could there have been a total apostasy?

Mormonism also teaches that the true church will have the same structure as Christ instituted. Thus they argue that the true church will have twelve apostles at is head. However, the Mormons do not conform to their own standard as they have three apostles in their First Presidency as well as their twelve, thus making fifteen apostles at the head of their church. Also, Deacons were to be men, not twelve-year-old boys (see 1 Timothy 3:8-12).

**Continued In a Later Edition**

Religious Culture and Food...

I've always been fascinated by certain Mennonite traditions, especially those concerning food. Having grown up in the Mennonite Church I had ample opportunity to experience the Church's traditions on food. In my opinion the grandest of all food related traditions that the Church holds to is the Potluck. The Potluck is a focal point in the Church for great food and even better fellowship. Many wonderful memories are to be had at a Potluck, from the creamy taste of a chicken casserole to the heavy laden dessert table, oh and not to forget the fellowship.

Continuing with my opinion, the second of all great Mennonite food traditions would be the Mennonite Relief Sale. Here is a sale and auction event where the collected funds are used by the Mennonite Disaster Service. So what Mennonite Relief Sale would be complete without many traditional foods. And I'm talking large quantities of food, like donuts, brunswick stew, apple butter, ice cream, BBQ chicken, and an equal number of other foods that I don't have time or space to mention.

I've never limited just the Mennonite Church to having food related traditions. I'm sure many other religions have there own food culture that gives meaning to the fellowship they have within their religious experience. Since moving to Utah I've begun hearing several traditions that the LDS Church practices. Silly little traditions that give great meaning to their religious experience, much in the same way that Relief Sale donuts give meaning to my own Church experience.

Today I came across a well written travel article that explained several food traditions coming from the state of Utah. I'll clarify by saying that each of these traditions are in fact ones that I have heard belong to the LDS Church. I have copied this article from www.fodors.com and will close by allowing you the privledge of reading this information for yourself.

Mormon Munchies

The Mormon religion has helped to shape the state's cuisine as well as its culture. The church advises followers to refrain from drinking beverages containing alcohol or caffeine. Some people theorize that this has led to the development of a collective sweet tooth. Sweet red punch is perhaps the state's most popular beverage, ice cream is consumed in great quantities (though the weight-conscious have switched to frozen yogurt), and shops that serve fresh pastries are all the rage.

Green Jell-O gelatin -- topped with miniature marshmallows and mixed with grated carrots or cottage cheese and pineapple -- appears at every Mormon social function. In 2001, when Salt Lake City lost its title as the number-one consumer of Jell-O to Des Moines, Iowa, the state legislature got into the act. During a visit by Jell-O Company spokesman and comedian Bill Cosby, lawmakers declared the wiggly stuff as Utah's official state snack. The tide turned and for the time being, more of the stuff is consumed per capita than in any other state.

At family functions such as potluck dinners, weddings, and funerals you'll often see a dish that's dubbed "funeral potatoes." It's made from potatoes, cheddar cheese, canned soup, and sour cream -- all baked and covered with buttered bread crumbs. One favorite that's readily available at restaurants is fry sauce. The originator of a local hamburger chain, Arctic Circle, invented this combination of ketchup, mayonnaise, and spices. It caught on, and most locals demand the sauce for their french fries at all burger joints.

Separation of Church and State...does that still exist in Utah?

Okay, I'll be fair, there does exist a separation between Church and State in Utah, but only by a VERY FINE GRAY line. What can you expect for a state where the majority of its residents are members of the LDS Church? I can't be exact (since I've heard at this point many possible percentages), but as far as I'm able to determine about 85 percent of Salt Lake City is Mormon and 97 percent of Provo. Those are huge majorities.

Ultimately, these majorities lead to Mormon city officials, judges, mayors, congressmen and senators. The policies of the state of Utah are determined by the will of the LDS Church through its elected members.

So how does this Church/State play out you might ask? Let's start with a little fact I picked up this week, it truly is minor and inconsequential in the whole scheme of the situation, but at least it's interesting. It came to my knowledge this last Sunday that the LDS Church owns a street in Salt Lake City. This is not just any street in the city, it happens to be Main Street, the very center of the city. I'll ask you, when have you ever heard of a Church owning a street, especially in a large city such as Salt Lake? More importantly, why would a Church want to own a street?
I really don't have an answer to that second question, I more or less asked the question out of my own curiousity. For I find the whole circumstance of buying a street a little ridiculace. I wish at this that I had the figure for which the street went for, this is something I'll have to reference at a later date. I can only imagine that it would have cost in the millions, and that leads me to ask, how better could that money have been spent?

Instead of buying a frivilous item such as a road, could the money have gone to feeding the homeless or providing help to a single mom? In a world beset by need and pain, should we not be giving of our blessings to others less fortunate? So, I ask this of the LDS Church, why buy a street, why not support those who would be living on your street?

Holy Cow...What a Tasty Treat

So this past Saturday my evening was spent with two new friends at the Krishna Temple in Spanish Fork, Utah. This wasn't my first time at a Hindu Krishna Temple, my first time was actually with my World Religions class at EMU.

I saw no issue in attending the Festival at the Krishna Temple, I saw my part as that of an observer. The festival was in celebration of Nepal's History; with videos, plays, dances and special music. It was an interesting cultural experience.

As mentioned earlier I did attend with two new friends that I've met since arriving in Utah; Tyler and Maija. Before arriving at the festival Tyler decided to stop at a Carl Jr's for a nice tasty burger, since he had missed dinner earlier in the evening. There was a problem, being that Tyler was our driver to the event, so he had to hold off on eating his meal.

Once we arrived to the festival Tyler grabbed his Carl Jr's meal bag and left the car for the Krishna Temple area. All along I'm thinking he was going to finish his hamburger before arriving at the Temple. Not so, Tyler takes his meal bag all the way up to the Temple steps and sits down to begin his meal.

At this point I couldn't take it any more, I couldn't believe he was being that rude. Though I don't hold to Hindu beliefs myself, I don't believe in directly insulting another person and their religious beliefs. So I say to Tyler, "Man, what do you think you're doing?"

"HUH?" Tyler questions with a mouthful of juicy redmeat.

"You know, eating what Hindus consider sacred right on the Temple steps."

"WHAT!! Are you serious?" Was his response all the while taking his hamburger throwing it back into the bag and hiding it all tucked under his arm.

At this point my only reaction was to begin laughing, for I realized that by Tyler's look of guilt he hadn't known that the cow was considered sacred to all Hindus.

After realizing that I wasn't joking or playing him for a fool, Tyler practically took off at a run for the safety of his car to be finishing his nice tasty treat. He came back with a satisfied smile and a remark that "illegal" foods were the most tasty of all.

A Saturday Afternoon in Utah

It's an absolutely beautiful Saturday afternoon here in Salt Lake City, Utah. From my viewpoint (sitting on the carpeted floor of my bedroom) I can see heavenly blue skies with a fluffy assortment of pristine white clouds. If I were stand by the window of my bedroom I would be assured to see majestic mountains with the peaks still covered in snow. It's all such a wonderful display of God's nature and an overwhelming evidence of God's love for us.

Yet, I can't help but think that this beautiful day is somewhat marred by events that are taking place here in Salt Lake City. For today a young woman named Ashley has left the Christian Church to marry her fiance an LDS Church member. This afternoon she will enter the Mormon Temple for the first time and participate in the Temple rites before she is sealed to her husband for all eternity (The Mormon Church believes that marriages are for all eternity and do not dissolve in death).

My heart and prayers go out to Ashley, who is blindly following her fiance David into the Temple and the LDS Church. It is difficult to actually know how to pray in this situation. My own understanding is unable to fathom the question, "why?" So it is in times like these that I am reminded to lean not on my own understanding, but upon God's word and message.

My prayer today is for Ashley and her new husband David, that God would be at work in their lives prompting them by His Holy Spirit. That this new union of theirs would become a testiment to God's power and ability to change even the most seemingly hopeless situations. For in God we know that no circumstance is without hope and nothing is beyond His control. Amen.

Women of Faith Rise Up...

During this past week I had the wonderful privledge of being able to attend a Ladies Biblestudy held at one of the local Churches here in Salt Lake City. What I had anticipated being an hour long study in the book of Luke, turned into a three study and prayer meeting. Don't get me wrong, I wasn't displeased by the turn of events; I was only yet again remind of how God is often calling me to be flexible.

The three hours were spent accordingly; two hours discussing about eight chapters in the gospel of Luke, with 30 minutes for prayer and praise requests, and the final allotment of time was spent in prayer together. I enjoyed the biblestudy as a whole, and learned several new insights into passages found within the gospel of Luke. There was though a particular time within the three hours that I found more interesting than the rest of the discussions, and that was during the group's prayer and praise requests.

Here was a collective group of women that came from different backgrounds and family situations that had two important links in common. Each of these women had spent a majority of their lives living in Utah, and each were part of the Christian Church that is a minority here in Utah.

And oh did they have stories to share. How fascinating it was for me to hear what each of these women dealt with on a daily basis, the triumphs and the continual struggles. Some of these women had the support of their extended families, others did not. Some had the support of their husbands, while others still prayed in faith that their husbands would find Christ. Some had children in the Christian Church, while others in much sadness watched their children fall into the LDS Church.

Each of these women had lived through their own trials, and had grown in their relationship with Christ through the experience. Many of the struggles they faced dealt directly with opposition they received from the LDS Church, and yet as women of strong faith they remain here in Utah ready to minister where the Lord leads. It makes me rejoice to meet women of such faith and love, and I'm encouraged in my own walk with the Lord.

My prayer today is that we are all able to openly acknowledge and celebrate the love, faith and hope shared in the Family of Christ. And a special praise to mothers, wives, daughters and sisters, who each day rise up in faith to be living examples of Christ's love in a world that doesn't always understand the meaning of love. Amen.