Lenny's Blogs & Things

The Diamonds "Little Darlin"

2012-01-24T16:14:00.001-07:00

I do remember this song but as a 6 year old when it was released, I may not have paid attention for 5-6 years still. This is from a recent show aired on PBS and is a great repeat performance.

A People of Honor and Valor

2012-01-12T06:35:00.000-07:00

At October 2008 Conference President of the Quorum of The Twelve Apostles Elder Boyd K Packer shares these and more words about Liberty in "The Test":

The Lord told them, “I established the Constitution of this land, by the hands of wise men whom I raised up unto this very purpose.” 11
And in another verse, the Lord told them that “it is not right that any man should be in bondage one to another.” 12 They were therefore antislavery. This was a very sore spot with the settlers in Missouri.
And so on that day of celebration in 1849, “Elder Phineas Richards came forward in behalf of the twenty-four aged sires, and read their loyal and patriotic address.” 13 He spoke of the need for them to teach patriotism to their children and to love and honor freedom. After he briefly recited the perils that they had come through, he said:
“Brethren and friends, we who have lived to three-score years, have beheld the government of the United States in its glory, and know that the outrageous cruelties we have suffered proceeded from a corrupted and degenerate administration, while the pure principles of our boasted Constitution remain unchanged. …
“… As we have inherited the spirit of liberty and the fire of patriotism from our fathers, so let them descend [unchanged] to our posterity.” 14

We still need to study and understand the US Declaration of Independence and Constitution as The Lord, thru his prophets Joseph Smith, Brigham Young and on to Thomas S Monson have told us to do. This is the extent of my morning scripture and spiritual studies today. Please refer to 2 Nephi 13 for some ample reason to do these things.

This article by Ezra Taylor is something to consider today when our government is about making more laws, designed by select groups of men with no Constitutional authority to make laws, that rob citizens of their liberties and responsibilities save they follow the current powers that be. That some laws are designed to conflict with other laws as weapons against political adversaries just complicates the choices that honest God fearing men would make. I am sure that to act as Daniel, Shadrack, Meshack and Abednigo did you need to be similarly righteous as they to expect The Lord's intervention. Also there are those innocent of sin such as Abinadi who suffered a nobel death rather than blaspheme against God.

Now is not a time to rationalize disobedience but to closely obey God. As Abraham choose to follow God and be a model citizen and a friend to neighbors. We are a chosen people for this time and are valiant if we call on God and obey God's laws. We to can Choose Liberty and serve mankind as Patrick Henry, Abinadi and Joseph Smith have so valiantly done in our past.
I found this quote and info at Wikepedia :

Give me Liberty, or Give me Death!" is a quotation attributed to Patrick Henry from a speech he made to the Virginia Convention. It was given on March 23, 1775, at St. John's Church in Richmond, Virginia, and is credited with having swung the balance in convincing the Virginia House of Burgesses to pass a resolution delivering the Virginia troops to the Revolutionary War.

Being Thankful

2011-12-10T02:51:00.001-07:00

"Writing down our experiences and blessings can help us remember them and give us something to refer back to. Consider asking those you teach to write down what they are grateful for—to help them remember the blessings they have received, recognize the blessings of the present, and look forward to the blessings of the future."
"The Choice to Be Grateful" President Henry B. Eyring, December 2011

This blog is at times my attempts to be eloquent in my thankfulness. I have been blessed with wife, family, health, work, intelligence, joy, music in my heart, a testimony of God's great love for all mankind, baptism by the authority of God to fully enjoy the Atonement of Jesus Christ in my life. And this is only a beginning of a list of gratitude.

As I remember my life I have mostly good and great memories from childhood on. Either I have selectively remembered mostly happy memories or God has blessed me with a forgetting of sadness and sorrow. I can certainly dredge up the pains I have felt and do feel, I have plenty. I have cried true tears of regret and sorrow.

As I look to the Savior I choose to remember ones that bring a joy and happiness of spirit. I listen to music that brings a smile. I avoid things that I know bring regrets. I strive to control my lesser and lower impulses, a loose tongue especially. I am thankful for the comfort of The Holy Ghost, and for my good wife.

Music Player from Audio Archive

2011-11-22T06:53:00.000-07:00

Bela Fleck & the Flecktones in Concert Live at The Keswick Theater on 17 November 2011

The Savior of the World

2011-10-28T21:09:00.000-07:00

All living at our Mesa house are in the Savior of the World play coming up on 11 & 12 November 2011, only 2 weeks away. This is in part because we all love to sing in a good choir. We are finding joy in serving the Lord in this way. We are strengthened and comforted by the Holy Ghost in the practicing to present this in a pleasing way. We feel visited by angels and thrill to sing and feel such joy accompanied by angels singing and praising our Savior.

Here are some thoughts about the experience and how it is hard but with constant reminders of our Heavenly Father's love for mankind. Usually someone saying you did great on your part or feeling that Mary and Elizabeth and Joseph and so many parts are just right with a potential to share the gospel message not just thru acting but as the way they carry and present themselves. And you all have worked so hard to make this a success that we all want to do our part too.

I have no major miracles to report but a great feeling that I am about my Father's business and sharing great experiences with old friends and new acquaintances. I am also getting more done at work than usual in a shorter time so I can get some rest. My back is bad and it is not bothering me though I can see Gary Helmbold could use a helper to place props and all as he is limping.

Nephi’s vision concludes in 1 Nephi 14. In it he was shown the struggle that would take place between the Church of the Lamb of God and the great and abominable church of the devil. Notice the promises the Lord makes to the Gentiles who accept the gospel in the latter days.Book of Mormon Study Guide

I Nephi 14:7 " I Nephi 14:7 "For the time cometh, saith the Lamb of God, that I will work a great and a marvelous work among the children of men; a work which shall be everlasting, either on the one hand or on the other--either to the convincing of them unto peace and life eternal, or unto the deliverance of them to the hardness of their hearts and the blindness of their minds unto their being brought down into captivity, and also into destruction, both temporally and spiritually, according to the captivity of the devil, of which I have spoken."

I can say I come from goodly parents, like many of the cast of "The Savior of The World". My parents were missionaries for 20 years in Brazil for the Church of Christ. earlier when I was 5 in mid 1950's my dad made printed circuits developing circuits for some early computers and space satellites. They prepared me for the gospel in its fullness just like the people of Brazil with the "Abra Sua Biblia" program. We learned the story of the Savior from our very own copies of the Bible reading and studying scriptures.

I am sure, in the pre-existence, I volunteered to come to my family of gospel oriented people and to accept and join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints to sing and praise His name and share the Gospel story to others. I feel God's hand and angels help in my being able to remember lines and music. I feel an excitement to be here and now using computers and knowing at the same time how to twist cordage and make a bow, arrows, stone knife and fire by friction. I am especially grateful, Thankful to be singing praises to God about my Savior with such an amazing bunch of Saints.

Lenny's Mormon Profile

2011-10-16T10:10:00.001-07:00

Hi, I'm Lenny is my personal profile posted at Mormon.org. You can read about why I joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and what it means to me.

Make Them Hear You

2011-09-23T21:28:00.000-07:00

Make Them Hear You
Clyde Bawden and Alex Boye traveled to Israel with no introduction to Glenn Beck, but they had a belief that they were destined to close the Restoring Courage show with this powerful song. Glenn Beck is hard to slow down enough to get his attention, but they did get his attention and did close the worldwide main event of the week "Restoring Courage". God is with us and these men show it with their preformances. I have Clyde Bawden and Alex Boye albums and love their passion and love of God that shows in their music.

Choir Practice

2011-09-21T21:44:00.001-07:00

Choir practice was fun and helpful tonight. I am blessed with a love of music and some talent. A gospel choir is one of my favorite places to do music.

Sharing of My Plenty

2011-09-18T06:27:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for people and their challenges and opportunities to help others. There is a truth I have come to know from a life and parents who shared of what they had. You are blessed beyond your blessings given to others. You cannot give a crust of bread to another’s need without The Lord giving a loaf in return for your needs. I use my encounters with people in my community to share what I have.

I am not rich but I do not worry about the need to provide for my family. I can give pocket change to someone in need or I can give more as I feel moved or inspired to do. I have paid bills for some and loaned money to others with little hope for repayment. The Lord has blessed me with enough because I am able to pay tithing with a loving spirit. I have learned to give a fair payment rather than haggle for the best price to me. I love to give a tip to one who helps me like at the water store where a shop person always fills my bottles and offers to load my car.

I love music and share my music collections with others and sometimes play or sing for appropriate situations. My singing and playing has improved as I have shared. I am blessed with many musical experiences and am touched by music in my family. I am looking forward to a musical production our Stake is doing for the community. As I practice a little each week I feel the help and comfort of The Holy Ghost.

I am not highly trained or disciplined in playing harmonica and have played at bars with blues musicians just sitting in. My gift of music did not allow me to do this very much as the environment was harsh and Love was lacking there. I still play blues and jazz but more for family and friends. Music can comfort and support a child’s needs and can change a situation. Recently at a nursery the children were wild and women worn out tending these children. I came into the room and played away on a small Karimba I often have with me. Children were calmed and mothers smiled.

Promise Yourself

2011-09-12T19:14:00.000-07:00

"Promise Yourself

To be so strong that nothing
can disturb your peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness, and prosperity
to every person you meet.

To make all your friends feel
that there is something in them
To look at the sunny side of everything
and make your optimism come true.

To think only the best, to work only for the best,
and to expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others
as you are about your own.

To forget the mistakes of the past
and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times
and give every living creature you meet a smile.

To give so much time to the improvement of yourself
that you have no time to criticize others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear,
and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

To think well of yourself and to proclaim this fact to the world,
not in loud words but great deeds.
To live in faith that the whole world is on your side
so long as you are true to the best that is in you."

Christian D. Larson

I got this today from Floating Lotus Yoga Studio. I am restarting my yoga practice and really enjoying it.

Mormon Temples

2011-09-10T08:14:00.000-07:00

I was married and sealed to my wife in the Mesa Arizona Temple. In fact as a new member I was anxious to marry Nancy as soon as possible and had not mentioned a Temple marriage in my proposal. Nancy would marry me, but not before I was Temple Worthy. This was news to me as I knew she loved me, but made sense when I learned more about Temples and God's love for me.

I learned about this Love of God at the Temple. I both learned more of His love for me and I grew to love Him more. Love became tied to my actions and not just words or ideas. My wife showed me thru her service and her loving families actions of this love. Helping others and not being judgmental of another’s actions are key components to love. I felt close to this kind of active love while at the Temples.

I feel a closeness to all of my children because of my Temple ordinances that tie us together for all time. I am thankful for the protections and teachings offered my family beyond what I have done. I being imperfect needed this help in raising a family of 4 in the 1980's and 1990's. Now I have 4 grand children and feel this same connection to them who were born under the same covenants made in the same Temple. I also feel closer to my parents who are not Temple endowed. God loves families beyond any other organization on earth and the Temple teaches and strengthens these principles by work for the living and dead.

Lenny's Mormon Profile

2011-09-06T04:50:00.002-07:00

About Me
My story begins in 1951 in southern California at San Gabriel where I was born. I lived there until 1957 when my family moved to southern Oregon, then Portland, Oregon. At that time my parents planned to become missionaries for The Church of Christ, and we all went to Brazil in 1967, by ship, the "Argentina Maru". I lived in Belo Horizonte and Sao Paulo before returning to the USA in 1970 and lived there until 1976 when the Army sent me to Germany. I have lived for weeks at a time and a month once in the outdoors. I love the study and use of primitive skills, like fire by friction, making and using atlatal, sling and bow. I have always liked people and listen to them, trying to be a helper and problem solver.
I entered the Army in 1974, I asked to go anywhere but California, having learned to appreciate travel. After basic training at Fort Polk, Louisiana and Fort Sam Houston, Texas for advanced individual training in field medicine, I ended up back in California at Fort Ord a beautiful place near Monterey. It was there I met Philip R. and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. With only 15 months left to serve, orders came for Germany. Soon after arriving at Baumholder Germany, I met Nancy. Lenny and Nancy were married in the Temple at Mesa, Arizona in 1977 just 3 months before discharge. Lenny, Nancy, and their 4 children currently live in Mesa. I commuted by bicycle from 1973 to 2004 and love the outdoors.
Why I'm a Mormon
I collected a few addictions along the way to becoming an adult. I was in need of repentance by age 18 but knew I needed more than what the church I grew up in offered after being re-baptized a few times. I actually joined the Army New Years eve 1974 in hopes of beating my addictions. I was not safe in the Army but did find some great people there. I became a flight medic in the MAST program (Military Assistance to Safety and Traffic) and met Philip a helicopter pilot and a Seventy in the Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He took a great interest in me and loved me into the Church. He shared his family with me and the Missionaries just happened to be there most times.
When baptised I was blessed with an assignment far from most people I knew where I could practice my new religion and not my old habits. I know that people need some good behavior to replace a bad one and The Lord gave me this opportunity to separate myself. The Lord also sent my wife to be over to Germany to visit family where I met her. I was amazed that this returned Missionary and college graduate was there just for me, but I was convinced of it.
I felt God's hand in my life often. My parents were those goodly parents I read about in the first chapter of l Nephi. I had many opportunities to learn and grow as a youth. I learned to build my ideas. I loved cars, model cars and started building slot cars that were fast and fun to race. While in Brasil I built one that won a National race for the Belo Horizonte team. A few years later while living on my own in San Fernando Valley, I answered an ad to make craft items and sell them at Magic Mountain in Valencia. Leonardo de Leather was a fun summer making and selling lots of leather goods. That summer was the year I started commuting by bicycle and taking a greater interest in my body and mind. The spirit naturally followed, especially when disappointments and poor relationships made me sad. followed, especially when disappointments and poor relationships made me sad.
How I Live My Faith
I help our Bishop out by making appointments for him and keeping some notes for him. I like to be his helper. I am one who will volunteer to clean the Ward building and sing a solo on a Sunday. I have cleaned the building much more than solo singing. My days to help move people in and out have passed with age and a back problem or two. I try to eat good foods and in moderation. I am working on losing weight and regaining strength and flexibility so I can more freely help others.
I am turning 60 this year and find I still love to do and make and learn. A few years ago I was able to study voice, using speech level singing. I am pleased with the improvements in my singing as well as general music knowledge. I make flutes of various ancient design and am getting ready to make some kalimbas and karimbas. I built myself a website using HTML language in 1999 or so. http://lennyharp.com and http://lennyh.com are two of my current projects online.
I like Facebook and share Gospel, political and somewhat personal topics there. I think that we do not have any secrets for long these days so try to repent and change as I find the need. I also want to encourage all others to find this kind of happiness thus the sharing. I try to remember others feelings and be courteous but also need honesty and want to share my honest ideas and thoughts. We are busy these days so my postings are infrequent and sometimes not too well thought out and put together.
Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints spoke to graduates at the 15 December 2007 commencement ceremony at Brigham Young University/Hawaii. He encouraged proper use of the Internet and sharing of testimonies as important for members. I took this council to heart as did I this quote from Ezra Taft Benson, "Truth must be repeated again and again because error is constantly being preached round about us." I stand for and by God and his Laws.

-- Lenny HendersonEzra Taft Benson in "Our Duty as Citizens" "...because character is the one thing we make in this world and take with us into the next. It must never be sacrificed for expediency."

Political Allegiance is to The US Constitution

2011-07-03T15:05:00.006-07:00

J. Ruben Clark said: “God provided that in this land of liberty, our political allegiance shall run not to individuals, that is, to government officials, no matter how great or how small they may be. Under His plan our allegiance and the only allegiance we owe as citizens or denizens of the United States, runs to our inspired Constitution which God himself set up. So runs the oath of office of those who participate in government. A certain loyalty we do owe to the office which a man holds, but even here we owe just by reason of our citizenship, no loyalty to the man himself. In other countries it is to the individual that allegiance runs. This principle of allegiance to the Constitution is basic to our freedom. It is one of the great principles that distinguishes this ‘land of liberty’ from other countries.” (Improvement Era, July 1940, p. 444.) quoted by Ezra Taft Benson, July 1972 Ensign

This is why after serving some 3 years in the US Army from 1974 to 1977, swearing allegiance to the US Constitution then and again many times, I now understand better than before these words spoken by a great patriot from generations ago. I believe that knowledge is only a part of the tools we have here for battle. We need to live by the knowledge given us by our loving Heavenly Father. Integrity is paramount in the arming ourselves to survive the onslaught of attacks against good and God. Below is my email signature that may not be politically correct but is a truth needing to be said over and over again.

Ezra Taft Benson in "Our Duty as Citizens" "...because character is the one thing we make in this world and take with us into the next. It must never be sacrificed for expediency."

Tips For Working In The Heat

2011-07-03T14:59:00.001-07:00

Wow, it was 117-118 or so degrees yesterday in the "Valley of The Sun". I got out about 6:30 and walked for an hour or so and then mowed a neighbor's back yard with my wife. By then my step count was 13,500 or so. It was slowly getting hotter and probably was over 100 by the time I took a nap. That evening at 8 PM Nancy and I went out for more steps and it truly feels like an open oven door after that kind of heat. I ended up with 23,090 steps for my second best of this event. The early start helped as did several drinks even on the early morning walk.
Hydration and staying out of the midday heat are critical to life in the desert. The first time I worked construction in this kind of heat I was allowed to work at my own pace by a good forman, and drank a pint of water every 30 minutes for the 9 hour workday. 18 pints of water is over a gallon and i did not pee once during that time as it all went out as perspiration to cool me. We also started at pre-dawn about 4:30 right now, so that we only worked till 1:30, before the day's peak heat during the hottest time of year.

Joy of Music

2011-06-19T15:10:00.008-07:00

Joy of Music

Mark Holdaway will visit Mesa on 24 June 2011 to Share his story, music and jam with musicians from the audience. This is a kid-friendly experience.

Mark is a multi-instrumentalist who loves the Kalimba. Mark has KalimbaMagic.com, a website and business that imports the Kalimba, so he will have a number of them to share and to teach technique of this instrument.

Discover the world of kalimbas at http://www.kalimbamagic.com

Shop for kalimbas and accessories at
the KALIMBA MAGIC SHOP

WHERE

Come to the Womens Club of Mesa building 200 S. Macdonald St. at 6PM on 24 June to enjoy this family oriented musical experience.

WHO

Lenny Henderson has invited all his family and musician friends to come enjoy and jam with them both as well as harmonica teacher and performer The Duke of Wail, Robert Hale.

FREE

This is free but donations are appreciated to defray costs.

INFO call Lenny at 480-710-7564.

--
Lenny Henderson
http://lennyharp.com
Ezra Taft Benson in "Our Duty as Citizens" "...because character is the one thing we make in this world and take with us into the next. It must never be sacrificed for expediency."

Robert Hale is the DUKE of WAIL and he edited this info and will be featured as a guest preformer.

................................
Music Lessons for Adults and Children
Harmonica,Steel Guitar, Dobro, Autoharp, Guitar
Distance Learning via Webcam
http://www.dukeofwail.com
480-720-8897

The Lives They Touch by Tom Baker

2011-05-24T06:03:00.000-07:00

This is a poem by Tom Baker that I appreciate and feel relates to all good choirs I have practiced and preformed with. Actually the best choirs I have sung with are Gospel ones. Even the elementary choir at Inglewood's Lochaven was a Christian elementary school, and we did preform on Christmas Eve at Dorthy Chandler Pavilion. I also thank Gladys Knight for this choir and the many songs shared over many years, the best are the Gospel ones.

Sometimes it might not seem like much,
Simple acts in the many lives they touch.
Telling about Our Heavenly Father's plan.
Also the purpose of life and how it began.

Special songs that touch the very heart.
Sharing messages they wish to impart.
Music sung by a choir with gifted voice.
Melodies which make their soul's rejoice.

Saints everrywhere they go feel the spirit
Songs of gladness for those who hear it.
Messages of hope Our Savior embraces.
Appreciated by many cultures and races.

Saints Unified Voices share God's love.
Sing as if they were angels from above.
Praise and honor given to Abraham's seed.
Helping Jesus find those lost sheep to feed.

A Fantastic Victory in 1967

2011-05-19T20:37:00.001-07:00

President Obama wants to downsize Israel into nonexistence. With a population of 2.6 million, Israel going up against populations totalling 42 million and winning it in 6 days, gained A fantastic victory and some small land increases to better defend themselves against the ever agressive Arabs. In 1967 Americans stood aside as the British went against their stated role of peace keeper and sided against the Israelis. Russia supplied the Arab states who could not compete against the outnumbered Israelis who were supported by God rather than nations of man.

It was a true modern miracle that the Arabs were defeated by the Israelies in this situation. To deny the right of winning and keeping what land is lost in war by the Egyptians is not fair or reasonable. We as a nation dare not go against God and Israel. God has never needed a large army to go against wicked nations and oppressors of ill intent. America will need to be on the Lord's side, and should support Israel now.

President Obama hates America and Israel, by appearences of his words and actions. His first decree was to give money America does not have to support abortions for third world countries. He has continually insulted Britain and Israel our best allies and catered to Arab and Communist nations, many with stated hate for America. Brasil gets money, support and our president's best wishes for successful oil drilling. America gets red tape and intricate and impossible forms but no drilling allowed for America to harvest her great resources.

America needs to choose her leaders more carefully and the damage being done by poor choices has hurt many innocent people worldwide. We need to become a repentant people caring more for our God than for any power or wealth. I pray for a majority of Americans to side with God and return to those principles of goodness that made America great and willing to help others. Our leaders, too proud to be righteous, did much harm in offending God and man over the last 100 years. Let us choose more wisely and only with inspiration from the Holy Ghost can we know mans real intentions.

U.S.I.Q.

2011-05-18T17:28:00.000-07:00

"A primary object should be the education of our youth in the science of government. In a republic, what species of knowledge can be equally important? And what duty more pressing...than communicating it to those who are to be the future guardians of the liberties of the country?"
-- George Washington

U.S.I.Q. is a page at the National Center for Constitutional Studies web site where you can play the Making of America Game. We certainly need to learn more about what makes America great, as well as how our Constitutional Republic form of government should look. If you are lacking in the knowledge to do well on this test/quiz, you can take a free videotaped Making of America Seminar by following the link here.

REVIEW of John Vames' CD by Bill Webb

2011-03-30T04:47:00.001-07:00

Written and performed by John Vames
With World Percussionist, Will Clipman
Executive Producer, Sherry Vames

Most folks with an interest in learning to play the Native American Style Flute have heard of John Vames, who authored both “The Native American Flute: Understanding The Gift” and “Song For Koko: An Introduction to Jazz for the Native American Flute”, which are both interactive guidebooks. Many of us have “cut one’s teeth” on learning how to play the flute with at least the first mentioned title. Unfortunately the flute world lost Mr. Vames in July of 2010 and is certainly poorer for that.

But his music lives on. Thanks to the discovery after his death of recorded (between 2003 and 2010) but unpublished flute music on his computer and the loving thoughtfulness of his wife, Mrs. Sherry Vames, a CD of 13 selected songs is now available for us all to enjoy (thank you Mrs. Vames). Below is the track listing:

1. Remembrance
2. The Wedding
3. Your Own Special Way
4. Child’s Play
5. Sweet
6. As Above So Below
7. Lost on the Rez
8. The Gift
9. Call to Spring
10. Broken Wing
11. Blue Flute
12. Letting Go
13. After The Rain

Not knowing Mr. Vames personally or having even the pleasure of meeting him but only vicariously through his books, I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect when I purchased this CD (or even if I should be “expecting” anything...). After setting aside an hour or so of time, where I could sit without interruption and listen to it all the way through, as the last notes of the final song trailed off, the first thought that came into my mind about the whole compilation of songs on the CD was “O Wow”!
What a treasure this music is. It is a splendidly produced tribute to him and an excellent demonstration of his fantastic composing and playing skills. His amazing versatility with the Native American style flute comes shining through in this collection of songs and there was not one that didn’t completely capture my attention and transport me into his music.
This is a very open and honest collection of solo (for the most part) flute music untarnished and unvarnished by heavy electronics or competing instruments. The inclusion of the very talented Mr. Will Clipman’s percussion on only certain tracks was just right. I have well over a hundred CDs of flute music and “Remembrance” immediately earned a spot right on the top shelf. The highest compliment I can pay is, when the last song ended, it left me wanting so much more.
For more information about this CD you can go to: Flute Journey Workshops
Enjoy.

I sent these words to Sherry Vames in August of 2010 and I believe that John's teachings and inspirations go on here and now on earth and in heaven: "Condolances and sadness for our/your loss. John will play for more and teach more than he ever could here, now in Heaven. I missed your open house where I could have shared a more loveing tribute to John. He pleased me with music and helped me be better."

LennyHarp on Etsy.com

2011-03-27T13:51:00.000-07:00

Lenny wants to find some new homes for some of his custom made flutes. Flutes are from $50.00 to $300.00 and most have video clips on http://youtube.com under lennyharp.

Kalimba Magic

2011-03-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

Mark Holdaway of Kalimba Magic was given a 3 hole flute on Monday by me. This is cool cause he lives in Tucson just a few hundred miles north of Copper Canyon home of Tarahumarans. Well it was more of a trade by the time I left because he tuned my 35-40 year old Hugh Tracey Kalimba, gave me his "Kalimba Fundamentals for the Hugh Tracey Treble Kalimba" book and CD to help me learn to play and his own "Between the Dark and the Light" Music CD, all as gifts back at me.

I have enjoyed getting to know Mark, who founded Kalimba Magic about 6 years ago after playing the Kalimba for years. He actually is a multi instrumentalist, instrument maker and his house was full of interesting stringed, skinned and other types of instruments. We jammed on a blues song and another something or other that he made sound great. He was the guitar and I the harmonica of course. He also used the gifted 3 hole flute to play a flute and kalimba duet by himself.

Now he is back east doing some lecturing, playing or something that relates to the kalimba for a few weeks. Any how I am using the kalimbas I have as healing music for my knee operation I just had. I am sure of it's usefulness as my 10 month old grandson responded to my kalimba playing smiling and happy the day after his recent surgery. I am also enjoying playing the kalimba and my flutes after my arthroscopic knee surgert 2 days ago. Could be Kalimba Magic or The Healing Powers of Music.

Old School Tools

2011-03-26T20:10:00.000-07:00

Orien MacDonald is a kindred spirit who makes tools, archery equipment and guitars the old school way. I visited his homestead, a group of straw bale buildings, where Orien lives with his parents and wife and was welcomed there. We met online at Paleo Planet and after realizing we had a lot in common decided to meet. I visited and we did share a lot of interests.

Orien is making some great stuff sold over at Etsy.com and he does it so very well. I have one of his "Crooked Knife" that was originally developed by the Native American tribes of the Northeast as an all-purpose woodcarving implement. I also have one of Orien's "Elbow Adze" that is inspired by similar tools from the Pacific Notrhwest, though this type of tool is found worldwide. And a real treat was the ability we had to jam playing music together.

Day 27: Song I Wish I Could Play

2011-03-19T21:21:00.000-07:00

I love jazz and I love a band that can jam like this. Wade the band leader and a serious harmonica player and usually the singer is playing some stringed instrument that I cannot identify. I really like the way they all interact and make this a powerful song.

Day 26: Song I Can Play

2011-03-19T21:15:00.001-07:00

I can remember this melody long enough to play it. My safe song to keep me out of trouble when I might be tempted to go wrong. I love the harmonica and it's ease of playing. It is easy to play but not so easy to play well. I keep playing and even practice every now and then. That is why it took me a week or two to post this one as I had to practice a little to make it worth recording.

Day 25: Laughable Song

2011-03-04T16:44:00.001-07:00

I have enjoyed Bobby McFerrin for 20 years and my childeren do too. This is another long version of a song others would spend less than half of the time exploring and playing with the melody and chord progressions with word and sound. Bobby is a master of music. Chick is no slouch either and adds so much to the moods with his keyboard skills. I actually used this song before on day 1 as a fovorite song. This is a whole 'nother level of music.

Book Of Mormon / Democratic Socialism

2011-03-03T06:59:00.000-07:00

Do the Book of Mormon and The Church of Latter-Day Saints support the Socialist or Communist forms of Government. The Salt Lake Tribune published an article last week stating that in The Book of Mormon the bad guys were Capitalists and the Gospel way was Socialist. Is the American original form of a Constitutional Republic a failed ...experiment or an inspired and best of existing governments for man? "Jesus Christ—Gifts and Expectations"

"Democratic socialism is the very essence of Mormon theology and scripture. It is our common quest for Zion." Troy Williams in Salt Lake TTribune 26 Feb 2011

"Democratic socialists believe that both the economy and society should be run democratically—tomeet public needs, ...not to make profits for a few. To achieve a more just society, many structures of ourgovernment and economy must be radically transformed through greater economic and socialdemocracy so that ordinary Americans can participate in the many decisions that affect our lives." Democratic Socialists of America

I and the Founders and Joseph Smith and all the Prophets since have rejected the democratic form of government as inadequate to give the most people a fair chance in a society. No society has yet stayed good for very long. When the society goes bad it will be overtaken by a vocal and threatening minority as is the case today in America and around the world.

Ether 8:22And whatsoever nation‍ shall uphold such secret combinations, to get power and gain, until they shall spread over the nation, behold, they shall be destroyed; for the Lord will not suffer that the blood‍ of his saints, which shall be shed by them, shall always cry unto him from the ground for vengeance‍ upon them and yet he avenge them not.

23Wherefore, O ye Gentiles, it is wisdom in God that these things should be shown unto you, that thereby ye may repent of your sins, and suffer not that these murderous combinations shall get above you, which are built up to get power‍ and gain—and the work, yea, even the work of destruction‍ come upon you, yea, even the sword of the justice of the Eternal God shall fall upon you, to your overthrow and destruction if ye shall suffer these things to be.

24Wherefore, the Lord commandeth you, when ye shall see these things come among you that ye shall awake to a sense of your awful situation, because of this secret‍ combination which shall be among you; or wo be unto it, because of the blood of them who have been slain; for they cry from the dust for vengeance upon it, and also upon those who built it up.

25For it cometh to pass that whoso buildeth it up seeketh to overthrow the freedom‍ of all lands, nations, and countries; and it bringeth to pass the destruction of all people, for it is built up by the devil, who is the father of all lies; even that same liar who beguiled‍ our first parents, yea, even that same liar who hath caused man to commit murder from the beginning; who hath hardened‍ the hearts of men that they have murdered‍ the prophets, and stoned them, and cast them out from the beginning. Book Of Mormon

Day 24: Funeral Song

2011-02-25T21:28:00.000-07:00

I sang this song acapella at a reception for my GrandMother's funeral. It was a day before the real funeral for those of us who could not get to Grants Pass for the Funeral. I have never got a comment from family so I may have offended or they just don't know what to do with a singing grandson. I find real gospel truths in this song and it gives me comfort and hope. I want to leave my family and loved ones with those positive feelings and truths.

Day 23:Wedding Reception Song

2011-02-25T21:12:00.000-07:00

The reception is where I would have music, and this is one of the songs I would like. I love a lot of Stevie Wonder's music and this is a great one. My wife of almost 34 years, Nancy, is truly the Sunshine of my life.

Day 22: Workout Music

2011-02-24T22:33:00.000-07:00

I love to work out to Vivaldi "Four Seasons" The ebb and flow is great to ride a bike to. That is the best and most fun workouts I ever did. I would get on and ride for hours, getting off usually somewhat exhausted and somewhat rejuvinated. Since I rode farther & longer than I should have I was not always worth much the rest of the day. Still I have great memories of those rides and accomplishments. This is one of my all time favorite pieces of motivational music.

The playing of this music must be a workout in itself. This is another movement played wonderfully.

Day 21 : Driving Music

2011-02-21T20:41:00.000-07:00

I would rate this a close second to the original Cream version that took Robert Johnson's seminal Crossroads Blues into an uptempo blues rocker song. The bass on the Cream version was inspired playing that was great fun from a classically trained cello player moved to bass and lots of fun music.

And one more song from another of my favorite bands, Traffic. "Low Spark Of High Heeled Boys" was a great driving song, and I love this band mix for Traffic. Dave Mason had left and Steve Winwood added precussion and a jazzier feel to their music. Steve had left Traffic to play with Eric Clapton and Blind Faith before returning to this band of great potential. Here is a driving line; "The percentage you're paying is too high price while you're living beyond all your means...and the man in the suit has just bought a new car from the profit he's made off your dreams."

Day 20: Songs for Anger

2011-02-21T20:18:00.000-07:00

I try not to get angry. I often fail and do get angry so a song can help lighten my mood. If I choose right I will be happy soon. Often Jazz or Gospel is the music I go to when I am stressed or angry. Here is a jazzy gospel rendition of a folk great. Dianne Reeves is a spiritual singer at times and always a tasteful jazz singer. She takes The Carol King classic "You've Got A Friend" and really does own it.

A jazzy rendition of the Blues Classic "Sitting on Top of The World is another good choice. BBM Band or Jack Bruce, Ginger Baker & Gary Moore do it right. Jack used this fretless bass a lot or one that looked like it, and I love his singing. Gary Moore was a fabulous guitar player and Ginger is unmatched on the drums. This is what I think of as a tight band. I get happy just admiring the great musicianship on both these numbers.

Paul Pena

2011-02-15T08:12:00.000-07:00

Paul Pena was a great musician. The music industry never recognized him until forced to and seeing a profit in it. I know some great musicians who will never be top tier earners, but play and sing music with a soul lacking in most popular music. Steve millar took Paul's Jet Airliner and made it a hit which is appropriate, as it has a well written tune and lyrics. The royalties Steve paid Paul was a boon to his life. Paul was as much the master musician as anybody as shown in his ability to master another language and singing technique without any braille for that language. Paul lived the blues in a lifetime of blindness.

Paul Pena and Kongar-ol Ondar became fast friends in the movie "Gengis Blues", a documentary about Paul's visit to Tuva to compete in and win a tuvan competition. Paul lived only 2-3 years after the releasing of the movie that finally garnered him some fame, some payment for his work and the release of his 25 year old album "New Train". I was fortunat to speak with Paul who gave me a throat singing lesson as we talked on the phone. I tear-up remembering his sweet spirit and powerful yet gentle voice.

At long last!
Recorded in 1973....Released September 26, 2000

Song List:

1. Gonna Move
2. New Train
3. Jet Airliner
4. Wait On What You Want
5. Venutian Lady
6. Cosmic Mirror
7. Let's Move And Groove Together
8. Indian Boy
9. A Bit Of All Right
10. Taking Your Love Down

Produced by: Ben Sidran
Special guests on the album include: Jerry Garcia, Merle Saunders, and The Persuasions.
Press Release

Released on Hybrid Recordings
from http://www.paulpena.com/CDs.html

Day 19: Steve Miller

2011-02-15T07:53:00.001-07:00

I loved the album, "Sailor", that "Living In The USA" was on. The concert at Santa Monica Civic where I saw Steve Miller was great. Steve played oldies first and with about an album per year, Steve had already compiled a long list of oldies. Then he left and returned solo and acoustic, which was awesome. Last the band returned and they did the new album of the day, "The Joker". Steve is so very acomplished as a guitarist, singer and songwriter that a show like this allowed him room to show lots of stuff to the audience.

Some people were just born into a situation where they really are prepared for their lifes work. Many musicians are the offspring of musician or music appreciating parents, and record collections are often the tutor of first influence for these children. I do believe there are many different jobs we might be able to do, I am an example of that, but some are best prepared and suited for one special and influential job. Steve Miller was like that as this exerpt from Wikepedia's biography shows.

Miller was born to Dr. George E. "Sonny" Miller, a pathologist, jazz enthusiast, and accomplished amateur recording engineer, and his wife Bertha, who was a remarkable non-professional jazz-influenced singer.

Les Paul and his wife Mary Ford were regular visitors at the Miller house and Dr. and Mrs. Miller were best man and maid of honor at their wedding.

Paul heard young Miller (about 5 years old) on a wire-recording made by his father banging away on a guitar given to him by his Uncle Dr. K. Dale Atterberry. Paul encouraged Miller to continue with his interest in the guitar ... and "perhaps he will be something one day". from Wikepedia on Steve Miller.

Paul Pena was the author of Jet Airliner, Steve's hit song below. Steve Miller recognized Paul's talent and used the song for a huge hit song that produced a nice residual for Paul. Unlike many "Star" musicians, Steve paid the royalties for this to Paul. Paul had produced work that never got released for 23 years, untill 2005, which included his original of "Jet Airliner". I will post that music and some more of Paul Pena's story also today.

Elder Cook's Quote

2011-02-14T19:44:00.000-07:00

“in our increasingly unrighteous world, it is essential that values based on religious belief be part of the public discourse. Moral positions informed by a religious conscience must be accorded equal access to the public square.” Read Elder Quentin L. Cook’s article in the November 2010 Liahona

There is an obvious attempt to silence the religious views of Americans and worse world wide. America will return to her status as the harbor in the storm of persecution we see and feel rising against us. The Apostles and leaders of churches are seeing the need for their leadership in all things. We as members of the Church (or body) of Christ must be active in leading our neighbors towards God and away from despotic leaders that have risen up against the people and their liberties.

Paris James Friday 25 Feb

2011-02-14T17:36:00.002-07:00

Iguana Macks, 1371 N Alma School Road, Chandler Let's go see Paris sing these fine songs and more next Friday Feb 25th at Iguana Macks in Chandler. Last I heard Robert Hale, the Duke of Wail would be setting in for some of the sets. Robert and Paris will sound mighty fine. Live Paris is a live-wire as you can hear from the recording below.

Day 18: Alvin Lee

2011-02-14T11:21:00.001-07:00

Actually I have heard this song as it plays here on an underground radio station from Florence Arizona, 5-8 years ago. I used to walk around LA California listening on head phones and playing Harmonica to this one. Maybe that is why I have trouble settling on a note for long. This was one of Woodstocks best preformances for my musical taste and memory. I guess I do like it fast and loud at times. Not shown here, but a fan puts a huge watermelon onstage for Alvin and he picks it up as his image fades out of the video. This was about the middle of the Woodstock movie that I saw about 1971 or so.

Alvin Lee was a jazz influenced guitar player, listening to his dad's collection of jazz and blues records. Another band to visit the night clubs of Hambourg Germany as a young musician this band of Ten Years After toured the US 28 times in 7 years. With the wide spread influences and skill he played, Alvin Lee was a great British Blues player on par with Clapton, Taylor, Green, Moore, Beck, Gallagher or any of the other greats out of British Blues (Irish in the case of Rory Gallagher). Funny but these guys all came out of 60's music with other greats coming later. The influence for these 60's guitarists was usually American music that Americans were not listening to very much at that time.

Les Paul Tribute

2011-02-13T17:00:00.002-07:00

Freedom Of Religion

2011-02-13T07:19:00.001-07:00

In a landmark address to the Chapman University School of Law, Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints affirmed the importance of the free exercise of religion and called for people to work together to protect this First Amendment right. LDS Public Affairs

I need to pray and study scriptures daily because I want to move closer to God and His Natural Laws that all (but Man) of His creations obey. Jesus Christ used these principles to create this World. These principles allowed Him to become our Savior. Natural Law is not generally taught in government sponsored schools. As most people become more educated in most schools they become convinced and programmed away from Natural Law and religion in general. Prayer and scripture study temper, along with obedience to those teachings and inspirations of The Holy Ghost, man's learning form all other sources.

A major part of the Teachings of God in Holy Scriptures, Freedom is a critical ingredient of personal responsibility needed in the practicing of Religion. You must be able to choose for yourself in order to be held responsible. An ignorant and immoral man cannot last long as a free man. This is a major downfall of a man as he seldom stays obedient and righteous enough to stay free for long. Thus Religion and its practice is a key ingredient to Freedon.

Day 17: Van The Man

2011-02-13T06:44:00.000-07:00

A song I hear some on the radio by Van Morrison about radio music and more. Great song by a gifted Irish preformer and song writer. Like the Beatles Van toured as a teen into Europe to hone his prodigious skills. I have never heard any from these early days but do have a "Skiffle Music" CD made with Lonnie Donnegan and others.

At age 17, he toured Europe for the first time with the Monarchs, now calling themselves the International Monarchs. This Irish showband, with Morrison playing saxophone, guitar and harp, in addition to back-up duty on bass and drums, toured steamy clubs and US Army bases in Scotland, England, and Germany, often playing five sets a night. While in Germany, the band recorded a single, "Boozoo Hully Gully"/"Twingy Baby", under the name Georgie and The Monarchs. This was Morrison's first recording, taking place in November 1963 at Ariola Studios in Cologne with Morrison on saxophone; it made the lower reaches of the German charts. from Wikepedia

Another song I have heard a lot, both the original on oldies stations and a few real good covers on other stations. This is a good recording of a less than inspired preformance. I remember some days in Oregon along the Columbia, Willamette and their many tributary rivers fishing and swimming. Van paints feelings and pictures of times and places very well using his lyrics.

Day 16: Good Stuff I still Love

2011-02-12T06:24:00.000-07:00

With music this good and varried by one man How could I play you a song I hate. Just too much great to celebrate in music these days. Taj Majal has been recording music for a lot of years, 43 since his first release in 1968.
http://www.tajblues.com/

An aside about Taj Mahal the preformer featured in both of these recordings. My wife loves the song Taj Mahal by Jorge Ben featured yesterday. I noticed her listening to my old Taj Mahal "The Natch'l Blues" and asked her when she became a blues aficionado. She told me she was looking for Da, da, da, da, da. Da, da, da, da, da. you know the Taj Mahal song. I laughed and found the video for her to listen to. And she laughed with the joyful music.

Day 15: Leonardo

2011-02-10T21:07:00.000-07:00

Jorge Ben Jor - "Taj Mahal" a happy and beautiful song, a love song. This is my song for Nancy and the biggest part of me. I lived in Brasil from 1967 to 1970 and have always loved Jorge Ben. This song makes my wife laugh and I really love that.

Not so much a love song! John Mayall and one of the dozens of incarnations of the Blues Breakers doing "Room To Move". If you want to know what makes a great band leader just look at John and his track record of using great and developing talent to play the blues. This man and this song made me want to play my harmonicas better. He is still going strong and almost 80 now.

I still dink around with harmonicas and use LennyHarp as my online username often. I make flutes and love music and John was a big part of my ability to express myself musically. I am not terribly accomplished but treasure some precious musical memories as some of the most important in my life.

Day 14: Caruso

2011-02-10T05:29:00.000-07:00

Well who else but Jeff Beeck accompanying another great musician. This time the unexpected part of the musical sweetness is Luciano Pavarotti preforming "Caruso".

Day 13: We're All Normal And We Want Our Freedom

2011-02-09T21:09:00.004-07:00

Aurthur Lee, the song writer and band leader of Love, was really talented and a bit crazy. He spent a few years in prison for weapons violations. Some of his music is a bit paranoid, that could be said of me at times too. He felt, wrote and preformed some really great music. The second piece was originally recorded in late 1960's and then after he got free again a group was ready in England to preform with him to his death in 2006. As popular as the Doors in Los Angeles, Arthur Lee would not travel very much, which hurt Love's popularity until years later when the music on it's own made him popular.

And one more of my favorites from Love Forever Changes, recorded 1967. The album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2008. I have had this album off and on since about 1968 in Brasil. I love the way he leaves the last word out till the next line that uses that word to start. May be a name for that literary trick?

We're All Normal And We Want Our Freedom A favorite line from "The Red Telephone" by Arthur Lee.

Day 12: Turn It OFF

2011-02-08T06:21:00.000-07:00

These songs are not as bad as I feel about them. I guess you know that top 40's music is not what I am selecting as favorites. I in fact I get tired of most songs quickly and want to hear something else. I could not get away from these songs except to turn the radio off when they were new. Please there are other songs on albums than the preselected favorites!!!

I find it hard to hate songs and groups but I can sure get tired of them when over promoted by the industry powers that be. The 3 minute pop song is too slick for me but it may be very well done and very talented musicians as is the case with most of these guys.

Gary Moore Died Today

2011-02-07T18:54:00.000-07:00

Gary playing with his friend and sometimes bandmate Phil Lynott the song "Parisienne Walkways" (live).

‎58 year old Gary Moore died today in Spain while on vacation. Gary was one of Ireland's finest blues/rock/jazz guitarists & vocalists. Below is one of my favorite of his solo songs. I really was introduced to him and liked his work with Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker in BBM. I already posted his jam with BB King on "The Thrill Is Gone" Day 4: Sad.
His music was emotional if it was anything. He is another musician I can spend hours listening to.

Day 11: Hazmat Modine

2011-02-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

http://www.hazmatmodine.com/home.html A personal favorite band these days.

In the true traditions of American band music, there is an ever changling lineup with a powerhouse leader. Front-man Wade Schuman usually has a second harmonica player and a tuba for bass lines and any number of other instruments. This music is fun and presented with a flair and sense of humor, using every musical trick and ploy known by the versatile musicians.

And just in case you weren't convinced this group and it's fearless leader were special, listen to this and watch the reactions of band members and the Russian host. Listen to the tuvan throat singing behind the harp. He is playing and singing at the same time. Moans and whoops are part of the original, with DeFord Bailey doing it so well in the 60's and before.

Day 10: Sleppy Time

2011-02-06T05:25:00.000-07:00

The song is a sleepy blues written by Jack Bruce & Janet Godfrey on "Fresh Cream" 1966. It may be hard to believe but I can sleep to this music. I would rather just listen to it but do like jam music to sleep to. Must be the way it wanders around a subject to tell a story.

Day 9: Dance Song

2011-02-04T06:23:00.000-07:00

I don't dance so I just picked one from a harp player who keeps a steady beat for himself as he plays this Stevie Wonder song. I love the variations of the song that Stevie wrote for Jeff Beck. Stevie made into a giant hit himself, and Jeff's never sold as well. Well both do it so nice that I will share them doing it together.

Day 8: Simple Words

2011-02-03T04:36:00.000-07:00

Don Nix wrote Going Down, Freddie King recorded it about 1970

I saw Freddie at Long Beach Auditorium about 1972 or ''73 where I went to see Jeff Beck. This guy knew so much guitar and played so fine, I really got a double your money experience. This is a song I have never gotten out of my head since that show. Freddie is so expressive, such a showman and worth an hour of listening to hear all his YouTube clips. Several things I notice about Freddie is how he holds the guitar and second is that he finger picks. Jeff Beck has gone that way (no pick) over the years, and many fine blues guitarists do the same. Below are the personel of the studio version, I have no idea who were in the live band here. They are all good and a tight band.

'GOING DOWN'
written by Don Nix
Recorded in Chicago, Oct 1970
FREDDY (FREDDIE) KING: vocal, guitar
DON PRESTON: rhythm guitar
LEON RUSSELL: piano
JOHN GALLIE: organ
DUCK DUNN: bass
CHUCK BLACKWELL: drums
CHARLES MYERS: drums

Since I keep mentioning Jeff Beck, here is a link to his version recorded a few years later on "Jeff Beck Group" album, personel below. Jeff learned from all he preformed with and brought such creative ideas that I like his work as a whole better than any other guitarist. This group made Jeff look outside rock and blues to jazz and classical for fulfilment as an artist.

Jeff Beck guitar
Bobby Tench vocals
Clive Chaman bass
Max Middleton keyboards
Cozy Powell drums
Studio lineup and version below:
http://www.youtube.com/artist/Jeff_Beck_Group?feature=watch_metadata

Oh Ya, some of the words of Jeff's version:

Well I'm going down
Down, down, down, down, down
I'm going down
Down, down, down, down, down
I've got my head out the window
And my big feet on the ground
She's gone
Gone, gone, gone, gone, gone
She's gone
Gone, gone, gone, gone, gone
I've got my head out the window
And my big feet on the ground
So I'm going down
Down, down, down, down
I'm going down, down, down, down, down
Down, down, down, down, yes I am
I've got my head out the window
And my big feet on the

Day 7: Watts Riots

2011-02-02T04:14:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTAXjZLwbTo

The summer of 1965 found my family living at Pepperdine Vermont Avenue Campus, West 79th Street and South Vermont Avenue in South Central Los Angeles. This was on the edge of Watts where the riots errupted that summer. A young Frank Zappa wrote this song about those riots and possible future violence many could see brewing in many large getto neighborhoods of the 60's.

At 15 I was pretty impressed with the armored personel carriers patrolling city streets with loaded 50 caliber machine guns and a soldier manning that machine gun. 2 years later I would see similar sceenes of military control of city life in Belo Horizonte, Brasil. The anger, fear and violence that I associate with those places and memories is expressed in this song.

I fear those were but a warning to a troubled, selfish and disobedient world society. I saw the song as a warning in the 1960's and still see it as one. I have learned that there is usually a choice in even violence, when one is prepared and obedient to Gospel principles. I continue to pray that people the world over will listen to the Holy Ghost and teachings of Jesus Christ and live by God's Laws for Man.

Day 6: Places, Heaven on Earth

2011-02-01T18:13:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQ97JYiDg48

"It Passes All My Understanding" by Cherie Call makes me think of Heavenly places I have been on earth. Cherie has a gift that she has used since her early teens to create a celestial or other connection to Heaven through music. A vetran of Nashville and Salt Lake City music sceens she has been a friend and inspiration with many wonderful songs.

I have been blessed to travel some marvelous places where I see God and his laws honored in the Savior's creations. I can say I have seen the power and size of the Amazon River as it leaves the Braziian coast and forces muddy water 100 miles to sea. The Normandy Penninsula of France and the human sacrifice to protect man and woman from the savages of war and oppressor. The Havasupai falls pouring over cliff headed towards the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. The huge sequoia and redwoods of the Big Sur of mid coast California. Anasazi ruins hidden away in Arizona desert as a defensive home for people long past on. The Temples men built to honor God and the people passed on. All these and many more places are special and a testimonial to Heavenly Father.

Day 5: Keep On Keeping On

2011-01-31T20:49:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-l91O9VxN0

Makes me think of Spencer W. Kimball and his "Do It" mantra. Curtis Mayfield was expressing great and uplifting thoughts here. I have been known to say "keep on keeping on" to friends doing good, and it comes from this song. There is certainly a gospel sense of faith and action in many of Curtis' songs of the mid 60's and on. "People Get Ready" is another of my favorites and I will link to it on another day and by other artists.

Paris James

2011-01-31T12:12:00.005-07:00

My harmonica teacher Robert Hale, The Duke of Wail sent an email today telling about an upcoming performance with Paris James. For my friends who like music I am posting this here and Facebook both. Date February 25th 5-9PM.

"He is one of my favorite performers, and you will Love the texture of his voice." said Robert. "We DO have fun!!"
Robert will be sitting in on harps and PowerSlide guitar.

I sat in a few times with Paris and he is a great bluesman/musician. Robert knows his way around several instruments, is quite entertaining and has played lots of blues, gospel, bluegrass and country groups. I plan on being there. Hope you can be there too.

Day 4: Sad

2011-01-30T18:55:00.000-07:00

BB King "The Thrill Is Gone". BB makes this song greater than life. His sad expressive guitar licks are as powerful as the sad thought of lost love. He sings this at every event he goes to and just last year was honored at Eric Clapton's Crossroads 2010 show in Chicago. Many guitar greats were playing as BB King who was in a wheel chair, sang and played away with all his contemporaries and younger in the music business. This live version with Gary Moore is my favorite.

As an aside; I remember playing this time after time in the juke box at a pizza joint at Ft. Sam Houston where I was in advanced training in the Army. I was lonely and at 24 years old thought I had loved and lost. I was surprised to learn that I still needed to learn to love and that I also needed a good woman to teach me about loving another. I was a slow learner but am a happy man with Nancy and now glad for any lost teenage loves.

Day 3: Happy

2011-01-30T00:25:00.002-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QupxMBEdzhE&feature=related

Lee Oskar knows happy and sad and lots of feelings. He once recorded "Smile Happy" with War and later "Feelin' Happy" on his first solo album, where I found this gem. I have lots of Jug Band music and stuff that makes me happy too. Music with a sense of humor like this one can elevate the mood with a few notes of expected enjoyment.

Lee Oskar is the harmonica player, band leader and composer of tunes. He released his own brand of harmonica about the time of this album some 25 years ago. I have a few but never made them sing like he does. Check out his website and all his videos. Another favorite of mine is "A Soulful Prayer".

Lee pioneered the sound of sax and harmonica playing togather often the same notes to fill out and add to the sound. War used this and can be heard in "Low Rider". And if you thought a 20 note harmonica was limited in it's uses and expressiveness check this solo work at NAAM 2008 show.

30 Day Song Challenge

2011-01-29T18:44:00.001-07:00

Day 01 – Your favorite song
Day 02 – Your least favorite song
Day 03 – A song that makes you happy
Day 04 – A song that makes you sad
Day 05 – A song that reminds you of someone
Day 06 – A song that reminds of you of somewhere
Day 07 – A song that reminds you of a certain event
Day 08 – A song that you know all the words to
Day 09 – A song that you can dance to
Day 10 – A song that makes you fall asleep
Day 11 – A song from your favorite band
Day 12 – A song from a band you hate
Day 13 – A song that is a guilty pleasure
Day 14 – A song that no one would expect you to love
Day 15 – A song that describes you
Day 16 – A song that you used to love but now hate
Day 17 – A song that you hear often on the radio
Day 18 – A song that you wish you heard on the radio
Day 19 – A song from your favorite album
Day 20 – A song that you listen to when you’re angry
Day 21 – A song that you listen to when you're driving
Day 22 – A song that you work out to
Day 23 – A song that you want to play at your wedding
Day 24 – A song that you want to play at your funeral
Day 25 – A song that makes you laugh
Day 26 – A song that you can play on an instrument
Day 27 – A song that you wish you could play
Day 28 – A song that makes you feel guilty
Day 29 – A song from your childhood
Day 30 – Your favorite song at this time last year
from Brookie Babble Brooke White's Blog

This is not my idea but I took a good idea and am following along. I love music, so here we go. I am posting on Facebook where I got the idea from Brooke White. I'll try to update here also and below are days 1 & 2.

Day 1: ‎"Autumn Leaves" with Eric Clapton's new version a current fav. Being a Jazz standard it has been done by many of the great names of Jazz. That may be why I love hearing Eric reaching into the jazz arena for material that is so fine as this song. Howard Levy does an incredible Harmonica version, Etta James did it and Kristina Folias recorded a great version too. Here is a haunting version by Eva Cassidy.

Day 2: There are a lot of badly done songs to choose. My all time least favourite song is well done and powerful, in a bad way. I switch the radio when "Sympathy For The Devil' by the Rolling Stones comes on. My brother was at Altimont concert, 1969 in Oakland CA, and he told me of the murder done there on-stage during this song. Until then songs did not seem to have such power over me, but I decided then not to listen to some at all.

Value of A Classic Education

2011-01-27T04:09:00.000-07:00

“We cannot see the future with precision, but we can know what the Lord intends to accomplish and what it will take [for] each of us to qualify personally to participate,” President Henry B. Eyring

I dropped out of High School in 1970 at a time of personal struggle to know myself. I have worked at learning and value it more now than when I thought I knew it all. The spirit of learning is a part of the Gospel of Love that allows one to become his or her best in order to serve and help others. I am thankful for the focus the Gospel has given me for learning what God would have me know.

“Your mind is precious! It is sacred,” Elder Russel M. Nelson “Therefore, the education of one’s mind is also sacred. Indeed, education is a religious responsibility. Of course, our opportunities and abilities will vary a great deal. But, in the pursuit of one’s education, individual desire is more important than is the institution you choose; personal drive is more significant than is the faculty."

I believe, brothers and sisters, that these verses in section 68 (D&C68:25-28) are a powerful admonition for parents to create a home wherein the Spirit of the Lord can reside. Within a Christ-centered home, love, trust, and confidence invite the presence of the Holy Ghost. In such a home the Holy Ghost can teach children to understand. Ultimately, it is not parents who do the teaching. Certainly, parents must diligently and effectively explain basic gospel doctrines, teach true principles, and share sacred experiences. But who truly does the teaching and certifies the truthfulness of what we come to know? The Holy Ghost, the third member of the Godhead. He is the Comforter who knows all things. He is thereby able to search the minds and hearts of all of us and then tailor a blessing to us, according to our individual needs and circumstances. And it is teaching and certifying by the Spirit that produces understanding. Parents in Zion have the responsibility to establish and maintain that type of Christ-centered and spirit-filled home.Elder David A. Bednar

On Religion Blessing People

2011-01-16T21:38:00.001-07:00

Wise men have long spoken of God's love and support of His people, those people who would serve and obey Him and those Laws of Nature He and all of nature, except for man obey. Man will learn to obey and will be blessed for this. America will be the home of the people most willing and obedient to God's Law. Here are some scripture and prophets' words supporting why I believe America is becoming a Zion Nation. What is a Zion Nation? America will ultimately become a nation of Zion People as discussed by Elder David R Stone of The Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints:

“Zion in the midst of Babylon.” What a luminous and incandescent phrase, as a light shining in the midst of spiritual darkness. What a concept to hold close to our hearts, as we see Babylon becoming more widespread. We see Babylon in our cities; we see Babylon in our communities; we see Babylon everywhere.

And with the encroachment of Babylon, we have to create Zion in the midst of it. We should not allow ourselves to be engulfed by the culture which surrounds us. We seldom realize the extent to which we are a product of the culture of our place and time.

In Deuteronomy 11 the Israelites are told to live by His Laws and Commandments. They are given a blessing for obedience, and a curse for disobedience. "8)Therefore shall ye keep all the commandments which I command you this day, that ye may be strong, and go in and possess the land, whither ye go to possess it;
9)And that ye may prolong your days in the land, which the Lord sware unto your fathers to give unto them and to their seed, a land that floweth with milk and honey."
"32)And ye shall observe to do all the statutes and judgments which I set before you this day."

I and my Wife have chosen to follow the Lord! Some of my family have chosen so as did my parents before. It will take a lot of families to choose and live obedience to His Law. I believe it is easier to obey than disobey, as the rewards are many with God and nonexistent against God. My words come from my studies and I share quotes from others more influential and eloquent than I.

"Now, some of you may be shy by nature or consider yourselves inadequate to respond affirmatively to the call to serve. Remember that this is the Lord’s work, and when we are on the Lord’s errand, we are entitled to the Lord’s help. The Lord will shape the back to bear the burden placed upon it."

"Others, though worthy to serve, may feel they have more important priorities. Well do I remember the Lord’s promise: “For them that honour me I will honour” (1 Samuel 2:30). None of us will honor our Heavenly Father and our Savior more than by serving as a devoted, compassionate missionary." Thomas S. Monson speaking of the need to be a missionary.

Next to being one in worshiping God, there is nothing in this world which this Church should be more united than in upholding and defending the Constitution of the Unite States. If members of the Melchizedek Priesthood allow the U.S. Constitution to be destroyed they not only forfeit their rights to the Priesthood, but to a place in this highest degree of glory as well. (David O. McKay, The Instructor, Feb. 1956, p.34)

"Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of patriotism, who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of men and citizens.... Let it simply be asked, where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths which are the instruments of investigation in courts of justice? And let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education ... reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle." George Washington on religion and morality affecting government

I can not separate religion away from practicing good citizenship. I stand in good company as I have quoted some great men from numerous times and callings. Over 150 years ago French Statesman, Alexis de Tocqueville came to America to discover the source of America's goodness. It was found in the churches of America, in the goodness of America. That is the source of the greatness and the reason America will become even greater in the future.

America needed to have individual's liberties at the center of it's ways. The freedoms allow the exercise of religion, and the need to repete the correct principles generation after generation demands that we always teach aboout the liberties of America and where they come from. "A nation of well-informed men who have been taught to know and prize the rights which God has given them cannot be enslaved. It is in the region of ignorance that tyranny begins." (Benjamin Franklin)

“America is great because America is good” is not just some trite slogan. It is a deep and well thought out philosophy that has over 200 years of evidence of its truth. Yet we are being told on every level from our classrooms to our newsrooms that America is not good and never was great. Glenn Beck on America's need to be good.

"Will the Constitution be destroyed? No. It will be held inviolate by this people; and as Joseph Smith said "the time will come when the destiny of this nation will hang upon a single thread, and at this critical juncture, this people will step forth and save it from the threatened destruction." It will be so.
I do not know when that day will come or how it will come to pass. I feel sure that when it does come to pass, among those who will step forward from among this people will be men who hold the Holy Priesthood and who carry as credentials a bachelor or doctor of law degree. And women, also, of honor. And there will be judges as well. Others from the world outside the Church will come, as Colonel Thomas Kane did, and bring with them their knowledge of the law to protect this people.
We may one day stand alone, but we will not change or lower our standards or change our course." (Source: "On the Shoulders of Giants", Boyd K Packer to Brigham Young University J. Reuben Clark Law Society Devotional, Saturday, 28 February 2004, 6:00 p.m)

Rule of Law

2011-01-09T06:28:00.001-07:00

"Chief Judge Roll's death is a somber reminder of the rule of law and the sacrifices of those who work to secure it" Chief Justice of the United States John Roberts on Rule of Law

"Man ... must necessarily be subject to the laws of his Creator.. This will of his Maker is called the law of nature.... This law of nature...is of course superior to any other.... No human laws are of any validity, if contrary to this: and such of them as are valid derive all their force...from this original." - Sir William Blackstone (Eminent English Jurist)

God gave America and the World the US Constitution as the best earthly example of Natural Law. We must repent and return to obedience of the Rule of Law. This puts a pressure on Americans to only pass good laws that allow obedience to God's Law, and to repeal all laws that force disobedience to Gods Law.

Many will blame the Constitution for todays problems when it is the refusal to follow it and all of God's Law, Natural Law that is causing such confusion and destruction. There are natural consequences to actions that man does not control. Refusing to live reasonably and rationally does not change the consequences of our actions.

If you put garbage into a mind it will ultimately produce garbage like actions. That alone makes me read the scriptures often. Where can I get better thoughts to include into my thoughts than Holy Scriptures?

Glenn Beck Makes Recovery Personal

2011-01-05T04:42:00.000-07:00

As a recovering addict since 1976, and one who made helping others a part of recovery, I can testify to the power of your spoken words and the concept expressed. I too will recommit to living a better more Christlike life. I will center my life on God, natures laws and the concepts given man in the US Constitution and the Holy Scriptures. No man can be good except for his own individual committment to live the Gospel as he has recieved it. God has presented it to almost all man at this time and personal responsibility and choice are central to living it. That is why the American experiment will not fail, but it will become more perfect.

Life is about Service.

2010-12-26T06:23:00.000-07:00

A week ago I was prompted by the Holy Ghost to visit Ezekial Sanchez and offer my time and talents out on the trail with the youth of Anasazi. I was happy by his acceptance of my offer and his obvious love for his family, the people on the trail, and others who make Anasazi work and for me. I was blessed to spend the Christmas day with Tate and others who shared enthusiasm for life and love of Christ with me. This message is for all of them and a forward and blessed walking eternally.

Father Lehi and the Tree of Life

2010-12-19T16:26:00.002-07:00

I am so glad that Lehi is using the inter-net to share this kind of inspiring and uplifting art and information. I am inspired tonight for the visit with Lehi's Mother and Father. Our Heavenly Father is so good to us all and Lehi's work is an extension of the work his family has done for Heavenly Father and his children. A Family in service of others is in service of God. You can know Lehi Sanchez better by visiting his website.

Don't Deny His Power, Shown Through the Prophets

2010-12-12T05:54:00.004-07:00

11Therefore he was constrained to speak more unto them saying: Behold, my brethren, have ye not read that God gave power unto one man, even Moses, to smite upon the waters of the Red Sea, and they parted hither and thither, insomuch that the Israelites, who were our fathers, came through upon dry ground, and the waters closed upon the armies of the Egyptians and swallowed them up?

12And now behold, if God gave unto this man such power, then why should ye dispute among yourselves, and say that he hath given unto me no power whereby I may know concerning the judgments that shall come upon you except ye repent?

13But, behold, ye not only deny my words, but ye also deny all the words which have been spoken by our fathers, and also the words which were spoken by this man, Moses, who had such great power given unto him, yea, the words which he hath spoken concerning the coming of the Messiah. Helaman 8

I am happy when I pray, study scriptures and obey promptings of the Holy Ghost to serve help and obey. I am miserrable when I neglect this keeping close to and acknowleging God in all aspects of my life. Going against God is not an option so I try to keep close to the Prophets who speak for Him. Study His words in the living Scriptures of the Prophets of God.

Yea, wo unto him that shall deny the revelations of the Lord, and that shall say the Lord no longer worketh by revelation, or by prophecy, or by gifts, or by tongues, or by healings, or by the power of the Holy Ghost!
3Nephi 29:6

Love God's Law

2010-12-05T21:21:00.000-07:00

161) Princes have persecuted me without a cause: but my heart standeth in awe of thy word.
162) I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil.
163) I hate and abhor lying: but thy law do I love.
164) Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments.
165) Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.
166) Lord, I have hoped for thy salvation, and done thy commandments.
167) My soul hath kept thy testimonies; and I love them exceedingly.
Psalms 119:161-167

I was struck with scripture power today when John King shared this verse 165 of chapter 119 of Psalms. He also shared the words of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow who wrote of his loss, 4 years previously, of his wife and now a son who had just been shot and lay close to death. I am not so sure how he tied the two powerful verses of poetry togather, but need to share it here on my blog.

Obedience to Gospel principles, those of Natural Law, shows a faith in God's Eternal plan of Happiness and Peace. Satan has, from the earliest days of the life of man on earth, been sucssful in taking man's happiness and peace, ever promising a false reward for disobedience to God. I testify that obedience to Gospel, Natural Law given by God to all mankind is the way to peace and happiness. All earthly possessions and power cannot be worth a little of the Peace that comes from God.

I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day

I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

I thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along th'unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair I bowed my head:
'There is no peace on earth, ' I said
'For hate is strong, and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.'

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
'God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
With peace on earth, good will to men.'

Till, ringing, singing on its way,
The world revolved from night to day
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime,
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Spiritual Preparedness: Start Early and Be Steady

2010-11-29T18:03:00.000-07:00

"It will take unshakable faith in the Lord Jesus Christ to choose the way to eternal life. It is by using that faith we can know the will of God. It is by acting on that faith we build the strength to do the will of God. And it is by exercising that faith in Jesus Christ that we can resist temptation and gain forgiveness through the Atonement." Henry B. Eyring, November 2005 Ensign; "The great test of life is to see whether we will hearken to and obey God’s commands in the midst of the storms of life."

Hunger, cold, exhaustion, illness and other physical needs have taught me the need for PREPAREDNESS. The spiritual preparation of self is by far most important and should not miss the physical needs we have. The Atonement and using it in our lives is critical to being truly prepared for any eventuality. Follow this link to read President Henry B. Eyring's full talk from November 2005.

I joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints because of their clear and strong teachings about being prepared both physically and spiritually. I had lived as a hippie day to day going to the store for my food, when all the sudden in 1973 the oil supplies were cut off from the general public. Oil was there but was not being sold as gas and diesel to do transportation and shipping. I started then to ride a bicycle and have ridden about 100,000 miles since then. I have done other things to become prepared for any eventuality and see many unpleasant ones brewing in the near future.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ was and is the answer to all man's problems. I am working day by day to be worthy of the guidance I need to keep out of trouble. The Holy Ghost offers me assistance when I am more compliant to gospel principles and His promptings. Obedience and humility are key to losing pride that would make me unresponsive to The Holy Ghost and advice I can receive.

Well the linked article is awesome for guidance and carries more weight than my testimony. Also here is a link to download the reading of Ezra Taft Benson's 1989 talk; Beware of Pride or to read it yourself. You can find many of these older talks easily at http://www.latterdayconservative.com/ where Brian makes it his passion to share these great mesages in print, audio and video.

Euro Rant by Nigel Farage

2010-11-29T17:10:00.002-07:00

Can the world be any more suicidal than it has become? Nations and whole continents are making foolish and self destructive choices. Nigel Farage has opened some eyes at the European Union and gained support for his views with wisdom like this quote from the video;

“If you rob people of their identity, if you rob them of their democracy, then all they are left with is nationalism and violence. I can only hope and pray that the euro project is destroyed by the markets before that really happens.”

Nigel Farage Nigel Farage : 'Who the Hell do You Think You Are: The Euro Game Is Up!'

Kristina's Profile

2010-11-28T12:47:00.000-07:00

"I have too many interests and hobbies for my own good and they manage to keep me endlessly busy, I never check my voicemail, so don't leave me messages, I follow my heart all the time, I refuse to give in to my fears, and I talk too much and too fast, I get excited about alot of things and have been known to jump up and down on occasion, but what the hell I am who I am, and I LOVE my life!" from Kristina Foulias

Kristina, except for the part about talking too fast your profile could be mine! I love it, your music and your upcoming adventure.

Accept the State of Life and Make It Better.

2010-11-24T05:56:00.000-07:00

Are you comfortably numb to government abuse of power yet?

Do you willingly trade liberty for a keeper giving food, housing and false promises of safety and even revenge.

Get your priorities right and value God's laws of Nature over ever changing government laws.

Getting into acceptance of where we are and working from there makes sense. I have been there for a while and do try to push for a Zion society as we are learning in Priesthood or Relief Society lately. You cannot separate parts of life from living the gospel so I can see why some would see Lenny Henderson as preachy.

Army officer Scott Smiley who was blinded in duty, is inspirational. He makes the point about needing to accept and move on with life, making changes as needed but not excuses. Captain Smiley has written a book called "Hope Unseen" available here or probably at most bookstores. His story needs another look for me and as I love inspirational and spiritual stories, I may just get this book. I heard him say yesterday his life is better now than it ever was before. Blindness has given him more uses for God in showing His Glory (my words).

"Since that day, Scotty Smiley has surfed in Hawaii, skied in Vail, skydived, climbed Mount Rainier, completed a triathlon, and graduated from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business with his MBA. The Army Times named Scotty its Soldier of the Year in 2007 and in 2008 he won an ESPY as the world’s Best Outdoor Athlete. Scotty, a recipient of the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, recently taught the core course in leadership at West Point and now commands the Warrior Transition Unit at West Point’s Keller Army Medical Center." from Blue Rudder

Honoring Veterans

2010-11-11T06:53:00.001-07:00

He was getting
old and paunchy
And his hair was falling fast,
And he sat around the Legion,
Telling stories of the past.

Of a war that he once fought in
And the deeds that he had done,
In his exploits with his buddies;
They were heroes, every one.

And 'tho sometimes to his neighbors
His tales became a joke,
All his buddies listened quietly
For they knew whereof he spoke.

But we'll hear his tales no longer,
For old Bob has passed away,
And the world's a little poorer
For a Soldier died today.

He won t be mourned by many,
Just his children and his wife.
For he lived an ordinary,
Very quiet sort of life.

He held a job and raised a family,
Going quietly on his way;
And the world won't note his passing,
'Tho a Soldier died today.

When politicians leave this earth,
Their bodies lie in state,
While thousands note their passing,
And proclaim that they were great.

Papers tell of their life stories
From the time that they were young
But the passing of a Soldier
Goes unnoticed, and unsung.

Is the greatest contribution
To the welfare of our land,
Someone who breaks his promise
And cons his fellow man?

Or the ordinary fellow
Who in times of war and strife,
Goes off to serve his country
And offers up his life?

The politician's stipend
And the style in which he lives,
Are often disproportionate,
To the service that he gives.

While the ordinary Soldier,
Who offered up his all,
Is paid off with a medal
And perhaps a pension, small.

It is not the politicians
With their compromise and ploys,
Who won for us the freedom
That our country now enjoys.

Should you find yourself in danger,
With your enemies at hand,
Would you really want some cop-out,
With his ever waffling stand?

Or would you want a Soldier--
His home, his country, his kin,
Just a common Soldier,
Who would fight until the end?

He was just a common Soldier,
And his ranks are growing thin,
But his presence should remind us
We may need his like again.

For when countries are in conflict,
We find the Soldier's part
Is to clean up all the troubles
That the politicians start.

If we cannot do him honor
While he's here to hear the praise,
Then at least let's give him homage
At the ending of his days.

Perhaps just a simple headline
In the paper that might say:
"OUR COUNTRY IS IN MOURNING,
A SOLDIER DIED TODAY."
Author Unknown

I, being a Veteran of the US Army, feel these words are appropriate at this time. We are now in a time of greater need of this attitude of service than ever before in my life time. The Glory is to God and His plan for our happiness that Satan would destroy, using men and words of guile.

Now is a good time to choose up who is your master planner. As for me, I choose God's plan of eternal service and happiness. I pledge my life to Him who gave it to me, just as a majority of those Vertrans in service of America have done.

Columbus ventured out to cross the seas, led by the Holy Ghost, discovering a land God had dedicated to house and bless His people. I chose to continue in that tradition, as did George Washington and Joseph Smith to follow. The rewards are eternal and given of God, for those who would obey and serve.

Self Restraint

2010-11-10T05:16:00.000-07:00

What should not be heard by little ears,
should not be said by big mouths.
From a local Mesa church sign.

This is what makes freedom work, when people are true masters of their emotions and actions so that the innocent are not harmed and are defended against harm by others.

Goal Setting

2010-11-07T05:44:00.001-07:00

“I am so thoroughly convinced that if we don’t set goals in our life and learn how to master the techniques of living to reach our goals, we can reach a ripe old age and look back on our life only to see that we reached but a small part of our full potential. When one learns to master the principles of setting a goal, he will then be able to make a great difference in the results he attains in this life.”
TALK GIVEN TO SALT LAKE AREA YOUNG ADULTS, OCT. 18, 1981
Elder M. Russell Ballard

“I believe in goals, but I believe that the individual should set his own.
President Spencer W. Kimball

“I gave unto (man) to be an agent unto himself” Doctrine and Covenants 29:35

Smart Goals

S Specific

M Measurable

A Attainable

R Realistic

T Time Bound

The proceeding collection of thoughts on Goalsetting were presented to our Ward by Benjamin Webster, one of a family of great teachers. I am indebted to others in my life of collecting and internalizing certain life changing concepts. This is one of those times when I benefit from the work of others.

The Church asked us to set goals, The Stake asked the Wards to further this and our Ward Bishop asked Ben to prepare and motivate the Ward members to become more goal oriented. If this is not God helping man to help himself, I have not really lived this life of discovery. Since I know I have discovered many certainties I am most certain of God and his love and planning for me to succeed. God Loves Man and has given him the Gospel and Church to assist in the acomplishment of returning to Him.

Alternative Transportation

2010-10-30T04:31:00.000-07:00

1973 in San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, California, Lenny worked at a drug treatment facility called Tarzana Psychiatric Hospital. Life was easy and as most 22 year olds, Lenny lived day to day like the proverbial grasshopper of Aesop's fables; then came to America the Arab oil embargo. At least the Arab countries were blamed for an immediate increase of gas price from $.30 to $1.00 per gallon.

People were led to believe that there was not enough gas in storage, so people in Los Angeles could only buy gas on odd or even days, depending on our license plate, and often they could only buy 5 gallons at a time. The stores also had empty food shelves, as trucking slowed to a crawl. Lenny's daily trips to the store were now hit or miss in getting food. As solutions to these problems came up, they often were simple and effective. The immediate food problem solved itself with buying larger quantities of food when it was available. Next in importance was getting around. The bicycle proved the solution to that problem.

Though not currently a bicycle or motorbike commuter, Lenny has commuted by bicycle since 1973. He has raced bicycles from 1981 at age 30 to 1991. A life shifting experience was the Arizona Challenge of 1986 a 24 hour race covering 325 miles and including a total of 17500 feet of climbing. It only took Lenny 23 hours to finish the race which would be won by Jim Elliott in 17 hours and 45 minutes. Jim also was a record setter as the first person to cover over 500 miles in 24 hours, and crossed the US from California to New jersey / shore to shore in 10 days 9 hours. The record for that crossing is about 9 days.

As you analyze and then methodically take care of a situation, and get others involved also, those around usually settle down to the business at hand. The Lord will certainly add to your perceptions and abilities. Your intelligence, learning and thought processes are the most important training that can bring you through any life threatening emergency.

http://www.preparingwisely.com/

http://www.mikesbikechalet.com/

http://www.staton-inc.com/

http://motorbicycling.com/

http://www.sickbikeparts.com/catalog/

http://www.bikecommuters.com/

http://www.xtracyclegallery.com/

http://www.biketrailershop.com/

http://www.bikesatwork.com/

Above is just a sampling of sites online this morning that I visited that may open your mind to alternatives in transportation and other problems.

Carlo Prater, MMA Specialist

2010-10-17T09:40:00.000-07:00

Carlo Prater is definately working to excell at MMA. I don't know a lot about MMA except that Carlo does it and has for years and works hard at it. I do so appreciate those qualities in all aspects of life. Here is an interview with Carlo in Fighters Only Magazine.

Ezra Taft Benson Society

2010-10-15T18:23:00.000-07:00

Ezra Taft Benson gave a Witness and a Warning to all the World. A world traveller and one who helped God miraculously help people in Europe rise up from the ashes of WWll. This is edited by my friend Brian Mecham with an intent to share this voice with another generation. http://tinyurl.com/2a7cozw is a shortened url to the bookstore where Brian sells this and many other videos. The objective of the Ezra Taft Benson Society is to promote an understanding of our civic responsibilities, the principles of liberty and good government, in light of the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Brian set this up recently and I am adding my support.

Happy Columbus Day

2010-10-11T15:05:00.000-07:00

Christopher Columbus

Prophetic "Christ-Bearer" to the New World

On October 12, 1992 the people of the United States celebrated an event which occurred 500 years ago previously - a half of a millennium ago - an event which changed the course of modern history and made all these later happenings possible. The dictionary says to celebrate is "...to make known with praise; give honor and glory to ... to signalize the memory of some person or event with appropriate formalities." We need celebrations. Our memories quickly fade and magnificent occurrences of the past become faint in our minds. Some even begin to doubt they really happened the way history has recorded thern. Perhaps no other event outside the pages of Holy Writ has had such an effect on the history of our world as the voyages of Christopher Columbus, and yet this event has not only faded from the minds of many Americans, but its telling has become terribly distorted in our history books.

Still A Communist Agenda for America

2010-10-01T23:29:00.000-07:00

Fundamentally Transforming America

President Barack Obama says he wants to "fundamentally transform the United States." I don't believe the American people want him to transform America into a land where our government —

>Spends us into national bankruptcy, burdening our children and grandchildren with trillions of dollars of debt;
>uses the public schools to create an Obama cult and train schoolchildren to work as activists for a very radical agenda,
>"redistributes" your earnings to non-taxpayers, with financial handouts to promote the feminist/homosexual anti-marriage agenda,
>appoints 35 weirdo Czars to rule entire industries, starting with banks, automobiles, health care, and women's issues, and
>appoints "transnationalist" judges who will put U.S. courts and decisions under United Nations rulings, treaties, and foreign law. Phyllis Schlafley's "Obama versus We the People"

I grew up in the 1950-1970 time of post war era with all of it's regrets and scars. I saw Communism and it's horrific results in all countries it was forced on the people. We can deny and rationalize all day long about what the current power structure in America is about and what policies are called. I cannot deny what I see and rationalization never solves real problems so I call the poicies of the Obama administration Communist. If we embrace and do not reject and replace these current trends in giving away Americas resources and freedoms, we will regret these years.

A new world order is what American Presidents, with few exceptions, have embraced for years, and it could only lead to this tragic conclusion with Satanic governance of the worst order. No president is totally independent of his advisors and supporters. In fact the worst danger for a good president has been poor or bad advice. Fortunately bad presidents get more bad advice and are exposed earlier for the destruction done to Americs. This is why America needed President Obama, to help expose the dangers of Communism and the many other wrong paths America finds itself on now.

I am thankful for a better plan and one we know a little about. We need to learn more, much more about the US Constitution and it's Godly Heritage. We can depend on God to save His country, but we cannot expect salvation of a document we know so little about. If we want to be saved we need to be about The Lord's work and do what is reasonable to save the US Constitution and America for God, and He will do the rest. Our personal salvation depends on our supporting God's laws, Natures laws, the very ones placed in the US Constitution, that makes it THE way to go.

Words from Mom

2010-09-24T04:04:00.000-07:00

The copy of a daily devotional is a reminder of “our rights” philosophy permeating our society. We are told, “just do your own thing.” I'm reminded of the last verse in the book of Judges (21:25) “there was no king in the land and every man did that which was right in his own eyes.” They did their own thing.

No king in the land signifies there was no leader, lawgiver or law enforcer which is the main function for a king or any leader. Many in our country have come to the point of ignoring laws they don't like and making excuses for not obeying laws as if there were no laws. Lawyers and judges are complicit in ignoring laws. We say, “After all, I have my rights.” After the book of Judges, the rest of the Old Testament books relate the centuries of Israel's gradual but complete downfall as a result of living for themselves without God - “doing their own thing.”

The verses written centuries later in Mat 18:6 and I Cor 10:23-24 tell us to be concerned for others. In our 2010 “press send” society we want instant results and find it hard to wait for His timing. God waited centuries before He considered the time was right to send His last representative - His Son - to show us the Way back to fellowship with Him,

“Be not deceived, God is not mocked and we will reap what we sow.” (Gal 6:7). Following God is a very individual choice and individuals compose nations. So we have a personal responsibility as well as a national one. I think of the book title “The Greatest Generation” about the WWII Veterans, and I pray for another great generation to lead this nation back to God. This would truly be the Greatest Generation. - BisaGG

Dallin H. Oaks Continues Church Stand on US Constitution

2010-09-18T07:39:00.003-07:00

Newsroom for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints The Church always has a spokesman who advocates this issue for the Church above and beyond the whole body of the Apostles; Hugh B. Brown David O. McKay, Ezra Taft Benson, and for many years now Dallin H. Oaks has been an advocate with a reasoned and inspired voice about this.

Constitution SALT LAKE CITY | 17 September 2010 | An apostle for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said today the United States Constitution is a singular document whose fundamental principles must be understood, valued and protected. Elder Dallin H. Oaks made the remarks in his keynote address at the Constitution Day Celebration held in the Tabernacle on Temple Square. The event was presented by the University of Utah’s Hinckley Institute of Politics and America’s Freedom Alliance

We will find many opportunities to correct the worlds views of these issues of governance, as well as Man's origins. Man is made in the image of God and certainly will benefit from God's laws being used in his government. I am thankful to have been found by Philip R Westerlund and taught the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the restored Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints during the bi-Centennial year of the US Declaration of Independence. I am also thankful for the Potts Family I married into who have continuously loved and helped me to learn Gospel Principles and a better way to live FREE.

Statement of Erastus Snow (Apostle):

We were told by the prophet Joseph Smith, that the United States Government and people would undermine one principle of the Constitution after another, until its whole fabric would be torn away, and that it would become the duty of the Latter-day Saints and those in sympathy with them to rescue it from destruction, and to maintain and sustain the principles of human freedom for which our fathers fought and bled. We look for these things to come in quick succession.
(Source: Journal of Discourses, vol. 26, p. 226, May 31, 1885)

Raul Grijalva’s Support of Anti-American Propaganda in Schools

2010-09-03T05:20:00.000-07:00

Arizona Congressman Raul Grijalva’s support of anti-American propaganda in schools is documented in this piece from theBlaze.com. This is the same person who shamefully called for a boycott of Arizona after the passage of the very fair law known as SB1070. He certainly is onboard with the President of America in a desire to destroy America as we were to become something not so fair and blaanced as a Representative Republic. We have given people like this a foothold by not paying attention to what America is doing and not allowing God to be a ruling part of America. Do we really wasnt to be like Chavez's Venezuela or Castro's Cuba?

This person who wants to destroy Arizona and America was initially elected in 2002, Grijalva is currently running for reelection in Arizona’s Seventh Congressional District. Will Tucson continue to try to be a part of Mexico of stand up to become a part of America? Before political pressure made him recant his call for a convention boycott, Mr Grijalva said he did not want new citizens to build in Arizona, just to hurt the economy so it would punish businesses.

Web producer: Sheryl Kornman
Reporter: Steve Nunez

TUCSON (KGUN9-TV) - Congressman Raul Grijalva is leading the charge for big businesses to ban Arizona and spend their convention money in other states.

At a rally held outside his downtown campaign headquarters, Grijalva said on Saturday that economic sanctions may or may not work but will get the nation's attention on the need for national immigration reform.

Grijalva is calling for an economic boycott of Arizona and suggesting civic, religious and political groups to spend their convention money elsewhere.

Audio from Department of Labor representative Dolores Huerta’s speech praising Venezualan dictator Hugo Chavez and saying “Republicans hate Latinos,” reveals that Huerta’s appearance seems to have been supported by Congressman Raul M. Grijalva (D-AZ). A representative from Grijalva’s office attended and “brought” Huerta to the Aprill 2006 speech, which addressed students at Tucson High Magnet School.

For God, Thy Sure Defender

2010-08-28T21:46:00.003-07:00

About midway through his US Presidency Barack Hussien Obama is showing his true colors of radical socialist/communist. Actually many Americans saw that he was just that before he ever took office. I could not support John McCain because he wants the same world government with maybe a few differences, so when offered the bogus for the absurd that we got, the difference was minimal. Obama did come up with some magical support that is often exposed as radical, Students for Democratic Society, Communist, Socialist, and worse.

"The Democrats are reluctant to admit the truth that Obama is not a smart politician (like Bill Clinton, for example). Obama is a radical ideologue determined to "transform" America into the socialist mold regardless of voter retaliation against Democratic candidates." Phyllis Schlafly

The destruction that has been done to America by this mostly hidden Jauggernaut of an administration is very deep and will hurt a lot of people. America was warned and is still being warned. The Restoring Honor rally today and the event last night at the Kennedy Center of prayer, song and sermon will start a lot of people back on the track to God. God must be at the center of our lives and we must live like Jesus Christ would have lived our lives. Prayer and scriptures will open our eyes to see the way to go. Repentance is at the center of any good change that would bring us closer to God and His ways.

Others will find God's inspirations in different places and sermons. I am thankful to have seen a beginning even if it took a talk show host to initiate the event. We need to get moving at speed because the opposition to God is well planned and definately up to speed already. I am hearing a constant reminder to be a Zion's people, a people of God; and great happiness and rewards are promised for obedience.

“I see a wonderful future in a very uncertain world. If we will cling to our values, if we will build on our inheritance, if we will walk in obedience before the Lord, if we will simply live the gospel, we will be blessed in a magnificent and wonderful way. We will be looked upon as a peculiar people who have found the key to a peculiar happiness.

“ ‘And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord … : for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem’ (Isaiah 2:3).

Arise, O glorious Zion,
Thou joy of latter days,
Whom countless Saints rely on
To gain a resting place.
Arise and shine in splendor
Amid the world’s deep night,
For God, thy sure defender,
Is now thy life and light.
(“Arise, O Glorious Zion,” Hymns, no. 40)

“Great has been our past, wonderful is our present, glorious can be our future” Gordon B. Hinckley, Ensign, Nov. 1997, 69

Something to Remember During Hard Times

2010-08-22T20:37:00.001-07:00

Exodus 1:7-12
7 ¶ And the children of Israel were fruitful, and increased abundantly, and multiplied, and waxed exceeding mighty; and the land was filled with them.
8 Now there arose up a new king over Egypt, which knew not Joseph.
9 And he said unto his people, Behold, the people of the children of Israel are more and mightier than we:
10 Come on, let us deal wisely with them; lest they multiply, and it come to pass, that, when there falleth out any war, they join also unto our enemies, and fight against us, and so get them up out of the land.
11 Therefore they did set over them taskmasters to afflict them with their burdens. And they built for Pharaoh treasure cities, Pithom and Raamses.
12 But the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and grew. And they were grieved because of the children of Israel.

If The Lord allowed His chosen people to be tempered and strengthened in Egypt long ago; why would he not allow us the same situation to develop, from our careless abandon of being His chosen and blessed America. When people choose to ignore God and His blessings and clear and simple instructions, they have always suffered, usually after many warnings. I certainly have no inspiration for you and all of America or even Mesa Arizona, USA. I do find encouragement in the scriptures, even this one, because it is a constant and fair and natural law.

America is God's Land

2010-08-05T05:10:00.000-07:00

Heavenly Father spoke about the American continent with a warning to any who would work against His lofty goals for low and satanic ones. These would be of necessity done in secret. Once exposed these works would fail to people with better hearts, serving God.

Alma 37:25 I will bring forth out of darkness unto light all their secret works and their abominations; and except they repent I will destroy them from off the face of the earth; and I will bring to light all their secrets and abominations, unto every nation that shall hereafter possess the land.

Giving me hope is this promise for those with faith and humility in their hearts. I pray to be included in this group and to serve The Lord and His choice land, even America. Notice this is not any elected person or appointed person usurping powers not theirs. I will serve God and help to protect America, and offer these posts for those purposes.

Alma 37:33 Preach unto them repentance, and faith on the Lord Jesus Christ; teach them to humble themselves and to be meek and lowly in heart; teach them to withstand every temptation of the devil, with their faith on the Lord Jesus Christ.

My Country! ‘tis of Thee

2010-08-05T04:02:00.000-07:00

During the early part of the 18th century, Samuel F. Smith wrote his great poem:

My country! ‘tis of thee,
Sweet land of liberty,
Of thee I sing;
Land where my fathers died,
Land of the pilgrim’s pride,
From every mountain side,
Let freedom ring!

My native country, thee,
Land of the noble, free,
Thy name I love;
I love thy rocks and rills,
Thy woods and templed hills.
My heart with rapture thrills
Like that above.

Let music swell the breeze
And ring from all the trees,
Sweet freedom’s song;
Let mortal tongues awake;
Let all that breathe partake;
Let rocks their silence break,
The sound prolong.

Our fathers’ God to thee,
Author of liberty,
To thee we sing.
Long may our land be bright
With freedom’s holy light.
Protect us by thy might,
Great God, our King!
(Hymns, no. 115.)

God Grant me the courage to stand for right and good. America as a land of service, compassion and strength, comitted to gospel principles to further Thy purposes, will stand firm. I love this life because I know of service from Thee and because of Jesus Christ's service, sacrifice and example. This poem inspires in me the will to serve the Lord and His chosen country, America. I served in military and as security officer and know of the promised protections of God in and for America.

A Promise to America

2010-08-04T04:08:00.000-07:00

In distinguishing communism from the United Order, President David O. McKay said that communism is Satan’s counterfeit for the gospel plan, and that it is an avowed enemy of the God of the land. Communism is the greatest anti-Christ power in the world today and therefore the greatest menace not only to our peace but to our preservation as a free people. By the extent to which we tolerate it, accommodate ourselves to it, permit ourselves to be encircled by its tentacles and drawn to it, to that extent we forfeit the protection of the God of this land. America's Promise", Marion G. Romney, New Era, March 1980

Fwd: A Penny

2010-08-02T06:47:00.001-07:00

GG to Lenny:

Len just some thoughts about how valuable a penny is.

The value of a penny! Yes, there is value – much more than any coin in the world and more than the minimal monetary value the US Mint has given this coin. During the Great Depression years a very popular song was "Pennies From Heaven" and there is a saying, "see a penny and pick it up, and all day you'll have good luck." Modern Americans wouldn't bother to bend over to pick up a penny – maybe a silver dollar, but not a penny.

I see the value of the lowly penny in the words inscribed on it and on all US coins, "In God We Trust." These words make even the penny more valuable than any other currency in the world. The "moderns" who are working hard to get any mention of God completely out of our society are setting up the eventual destruction of our country.

The Declaration of Independence is the one of the greatest statements of human liberty ever written by anyone here on earth. It's bold statements and timeless truths are that we have a "right to claim it as though we were blood of the blood and flesh of the men who wrote that Declaration," as Abraham Lincoln said. He continued, "And so we are. After all, the writers of that Declaration are our Founding Fathers."

God Supports our Best Efforts

2010-08-01T05:38:00.000-07:00

Only a Zion people can bring in a Zion society. And as the Zion people increase, so we will be able to incorporate more of the principles of Zion until we have a people prepared to receive the Lord.

This means that in due time there will be an increasing number of textbooks written by inspired men of the Church. There will be less and less of a tendency to subscribe to the false teachings of men. There will be more and more a tendency to first lay the groundwork of the gospel truth in every subject and then, if necessary, show where the world may fall short of that standard.

In due time there will be increased teaching by the Spirit of God, but that can only take place if there is a decreased promotion of the precepts of men.

We seek that which is praiseworthy, lovely, virtuous, and of good report, and we salute Beethoven, Shakespeare, Rembrandt, and Michelangelo. In due time we will also have more of our own giants—particularly great father-patriarchs and noble companions and mothers of men. Certain music heard and art seen and clothes worn must pass away—not because the styles change, but because our standards will be improved.

When individual actions of some Church members disturb you, here’s another principle to consider. And this is the principle of stewardship. As the kingdom grows larger, more and more responsibilities have to be delegated and stewardships handed out. Men respond in different degrees of valiancy to their stewardships. God is very patient and long-suffering as he waits for some of us to rise to our responsibilities. He usually gives a man a long enough rope and a long enough time to either pull himself up to the presence of God or drop off somewhere below. But while God is patient, no puny arm of man in his stewardship can long impede or pervert the work of the Lord. The mills of God grind slowly, but they grind ever so finely.
Ezra Taft Benson, "Jesus Christ—Gifts and Expectations"

Them Changes

2010-07-31T20:19:00.001-07:00

Band of Gypsys and lots of other great music to be found at http://www.wolfgangsvault.com and some memorabilia to be found there too. Oh yea, the music is from concerts so live is it.

A Few re-Quotes of Note

2010-07-31T19:10:00.002-07:00

"No government is respectable which is not just -- without unspotted purity of public faith, without sacred public principle, fidelity and honor, no mere forms of government, no machinery of laws can give dignity to political society."
Daniel Webster

"Only a Zion people can bring in a Zion society. And as the Zion people increase, so we will be able to incorporate more of the principles of Zion until we have a people prepared to receive the Lord."
Ezra Taft Benson, "Jesus Christ - Gifts and Expectations New Era", May 1975, p. 16

"The social disintegration that has taken place in America during the last half of the twentieth century is characteristic of twenty-two earlier civilizations that are now extinct."

"The prophets of the past who saw our day in vision warned that if a hostile Gentile culture erupted in America, it would not be endured for long. Think of this generation already aborting more than 40 million babies. This culture of depravity is being perpetuated by leaders and teachers who are corrupting millions of youth."
Cleon Skousen, "The Cleansing Of America"

"The proper function of a government is to make it easy for the people to do good and difficult for them to do evil."
Gladstone

I hope to help all to want to be part of that Zion Society that God has called for. All once swore allegiance to God and His great plan of Salvation. Most of us have forgotten the time when we promised to do God's will and return to him one day, but we can all do that and be happy in the process.

Many visionary people have called us to repentance and reminded us both of rewards for obedience and loss for disobedience. If there be laws decreed in Heaven that control the elements and the very earth and its inhabitants man might as well get on-board and follow those rules with all the rest of creation.!!

Obama's Abomination is Abortion

2010-07-30T05:35:00.000-07:00

Pennsylvania, New Mexico, and Maryland applied to the Obama Administration for—and received approval for—taxpayer money to set up new high-risk insurance pools that can be used for abortions up to six months into a pregnancy - including abortion coverage for almost any reason! Several other states are preparing their applications now.

Americans United for Life has been looking at what muddled health care reform was passed unread by our Congress and Senate. There is no honesty in the administration unless it serves their socialist, destructive goals. It did not take a genius to see that the President wanted to fund abortions, when his first presidential edict was to fund third world abortions, with our deficit ever rising, using borrowed money. The destruction and redesign of America as a part of a world goverrnment rather than it's independent and freestanding Constitutional form is our lot if we allow things to go on. The blood of infants unborn, almost born, and recently born will be held against America if we allow this state of affairs to go unchallenged.

Are You an Ugly Duckling?

2010-07-25T12:47:00.003-07:00

Our True Identity

Koop Says Kagan’s Actions Make Her Unfit for Court

2010-07-21T19:35:00.000-07:00

Former Surgeon General C. Everett Koop published an open letter this week urging that the Senate Judiciary Committee block Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan because of her manipulation of the American Association of Gynecologists’ statement on partial-birth abortion.
Kagan “was willing to replace a medical statement with a political statement that was not supported by any existing medical data,” Koop wrote. “That is unethical, and it is disgraceful, especially for one who would be tasked with being a measured and fair-minded judge. ... I urge the Senate to reject the politicization of medical science and vote no on the Kagan nomination.”
Koop urged Senators and all the American people to read the new report by AUL Action, the sister organization of Americans United for Life, which contains “substantive evidence of Ms. Kagan’s actions in this matter.” Click here to go to the AUL Action Web site, where the report is available as a free download.

"Why I Called for a Tea Party Caucus" by Michele Bachmann

2010-07-21T19:27:00.000-07:00

Why I Called for a Tea Party Caucus

George Washington once said, “The Constitution is the guide which I never will abandon.” Sadly, it seems today that the Constitution is no longer at the forefront guiding Congress if the reckless runaway spending, expansive government overreach, and excessive amounts of debt we have piled on our future generations are any indication. I called for a Tea Party Caucus to bring Members’ attention to the cries of everyday Americans who are asking for a return to the fundamental principles contained within our nation’s greatest document, the Constitution.

Americans from all locations and backgrounds have united through Tea Parties to spread the timeless messages of fiscal responsibility and limited government. And I have talked to many people who felt discouraged because no one in Washington D.C. seemed willing to listen. This caucus will change that sentiment and ensure the voices of the people are carried through the halls of Congress.

Truth is Essential

2010-07-21T05:06:00.002-07:00

How important is Truth?
Today Glenn Beck gave this formula that puts truth at the base of, or foundation of our society's happiness and peace. I am often inspired by something like this gem of truth in my blogs. I can find a backup and support to ideas in scripture, the source of truth.

There is No Peace without Hope.
There is No Hope without Liberty.
There is No Liberty without Integrity.
There is No Integrity without Virtue.
There is No Virtue without Enlightenment.
There is No Enlightenment without Truth.

Teachers and the press hold a very powerful position in life. We depend on them to present the truth and from that we make our decisions and ultimately become who we are. Thankfully we also have a more important influence in life, PARENTS.

My parents taught me that the press and teachers usually filtered truth from their perspective. Also the Communist influence into those areas was obvious to my parents, so I was skeptical of percieved truth all my life. I am eternally grateful to my good parents who gave me a chance to find and live the truth.

For those who lack truth in their lives God gives more truth than any other source. God is truth. All was created by Jesus Christ and all creation except for humanity obeys their creator. We are given the truth through scripture and prophets.

Here is a paragraph from an article, actually a speach to university students; To Acquire Knowledge and the Strength to Use It Wisely

"Never compromise your principles. Strength and safety come from making no exceptions to them. No matter how it seems that conditions would justify some departure from them, do not do it. Rationalization leads one to take something that is true and twist it to justify invalid exceptions. Rationalization is Satan’s tool to lead one from truth. Difficulties in life start when small deviations from standards are justified on the basis of circumstance. Individuals who live for the moment make decisions based on circumstance or what someone else tempts them to do. Such are doomed eventually to violate eternal law and to undermine the great opportunities of life. They may seem to gain an advantage, but that is temporary. They lose those things that bring eternal happiness. As you center your life in truth, you are assured success and happiness."

By Elder Richard G. Scott
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

LDS.org - Liahona Article - Faithful Friends

2010-07-18T15:32:00.000-07:00

LDS.org - Liahona Article - Faithful Friends

Religion and Politics

2010-07-17T21:40:00.001-07:00

Wherever politics tries to be redemptive, it is promising too much. Where it whishes to do the work of God, it becomes, not divine, but demonic.
Pope Benedict XVI

http://lonelyconservative.com/2009/09/obamas-salvation-depends-on-americans-collective-sacrifice/

“…certain portions of the African American community are doing as bad, if not worse, uh, and recognizing that my fate remains tied up with their fates, uh, that my individual salvation is not going to come about without a collective salvation for the country. Um, unfortunately I think that recognition requires we make sacrifices and this country is not always been willing to make the sacrifices necessary to bring about a new day and a new age.”Barac Obama

I Am America by Krista Branch

2010-07-17T16:02:00.002-07:00

Your god is power; you have no shame.
Your only interest is political gain.
......
You stuff your pockets while Rome is burning.
I've got a feeling that the tide is turning.

Ben Franklin

2010-07-17T11:02:00.000-07:00

All mankind is divided into three classes: those that are immovable, those that are movable, and those that move.
Benjamin Franklin

WallBuilders - Issues and Articles - The American Revolution: Was it an Act of Biblical Rebellion?

2010-07-17T10:42:00.000-07:00

WallBuilders - Issues and Articles - The American Revolution: Was it an Act of Biblical Rebellion? From David Bartons Wall Builders Site

Jeff Beck Jams

2010-07-15T18:48:00.000-07:00

Just a Bunch of Theives

2010-07-15T04:53:00.000-07:00

Concerning religion and politics Pope Benedict XVI stated last year; “The just ordering of society and the state is a central responsibility of politics. As Augustine once said, a state that is not governed according to justice would be just a bunch of thieves.” Sounds like most of our government! Look to our duty to God and serve well in that duty, looking to return America to it's Godly Heritage.