The Things of My Soul
Welcome to Our Newspaper Blog
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
For those of you unfamiliar with the Latter-day Times Newspapers, welcome! This two-year old, pro-LDS independent weekly online newspaper is based in Salt Lake City.
The name was suggested by good friend and mentor Paul Skousen. Thanks to him, Norma King and Crismon Lewis for their editing and other suggestions. Stewart King was invaluable in blog creation and design.
Our goal is to cover hard LDS news and issues dealing with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon Church) and its members, beginning with Salt Lake City and Utah. While not unique, we still have something to offer, like humor.
We believe in humor. That’s a fact, not an Article of Faith.
The former pro-LDS Latter-day Sentinel newspaper had its Laughter-day Laughter and Lighter-day Saints humor columns, and LDT will use those same titles to lighten your load. One of my favorites is of now-retired University of Utah sports information-everything Bruce ‘Woody’ Woodbury of the Bountiful Utah Orchard Stake.
In the late 1980s, we Salt Lake sports media were gathered for a luncheon and asked to briefly identify ourselves. Before anyone could respond Brother Woodbury blurted, “It’s not like a testimony meeting or anything.”
The place literally roared.
Our copyright, Sharing the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, is what we do. We hope you’ll agree.
To paraphrase Salt Lake LDS clothier ‘Mr. Mac’ Christensen:
• No one writes the way we do.
• No one interviews the way we do.
• No one covers LDS news and issues the way we do.
• No one.
Beginning with the September 2007 issue, this newspaper has included the editor’s monthly column, The Things of My Soul. The title is taken from 2 Nephi 4:15 and will reveal what’s presently on the editor’s mind regarding LDS life.
LDT’s editorial direction and layout is derived from the Sentinel, which ceased publication in 1989. While it was published in Utah for only about a year, the Sentinel achieved major success in scooping other local papers.
For example:
• LDS welcomed Russian nuclear arms inspectors to Utah.
• A man who broke his neck skiing recovered not only to walk again, but also serve a full-time mission.
• The world’s youngest, called genealogical extractor was an 11 year-old girl.
• Athletes under the Radar featured how sports can help build character in unique ways.
You’ll find unique stories like these in our paper. Read. Enjoy. Repeat.
We would appreciate your feedback. Please email us at: editor@latterdaytimes.com.
BYU Football Is My Second Wife:
Will Viva Las Vegas Ask the Cougars
for a Fifth Consecutive Bowl Date?
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
After last year’s college football season, I was among the many BYU fans obsessed with the Cougars’ bowl futures. Both the Texas Christian University Horned Frogs and the University of Utah Utes had slaughtered our team. Many of us were worried about where and who the Cougs would play.
We worried our team would be exiled to someplace like Outer Slobolia for the You’ll-Wish-You-Had-Never-Heard-of-This-Place Bowl.
I wrote the following letter (now edited and italicized) to fellow Latter-day Saint Jeff Newman (Rexburg, Ida.), who asked if BYU football was destined for the 2008 Toilet Bowl. With the probable Sun., Dec. 6, bowl season invitations issued in mind, my 2009 updated comments are without italics.
We're not stuck in the Toilet Plunger Bowl! Definitely the Cougars have a Poinsettia Bowl shot or maybe another trip to the Las Vegas Bowl. At #17 in the BCS, BYU will have to win out and also be lucky to even get in its Top 10.
After BYU edged the Utes in overtime 23-20, the Cougars improved to #14 in the BCS and Utah dropped to #25. BYU definitely has no chance for a BCS game. Even if the Cougs were on the cusp of one, BCS politics would attempt to keep them out as it has others.
Don’t you just love my positive attitude?
From where BYU’s come in embarrassing blowout home losses to TCU and especially mediocre Florida State, Vegas or San Diego (Poinsetta Bowl) is peachy-fine with me. Both are warmer than Utah and have great bowl games.
Provided the Cougs beat Air Force and Utah wins at San Diego, Vegas depends on who wins between BYU-Utah. Should the now-BCS ranking #7 Utes win out, they're likely in a BCS game since they’ll probably advance the required one place for an automatic bid.
BYU has more wins (10) than Utah’s nine, suggesting the Cougars are more attractive to the Vegas Bowl and its $1 million dollar payday. That’s not to disparage the Utes! Remember, they own two more BCS wins over every other non-BCS team except Boise State (2005 Fiesta Bowl champion). While U. can’t go undefeated every year, it did in 2004 and 2008. The Cougs did it once 25 years ago.
Vegas might opt for a different MWC team than the perennial (2005-07) Cougars.
I don’t think it will, given the records, rankings and head-to-head competition with primary threat Utah.
That's what the Holiday Bowl did after the then-Western Athletic Conference Cougs played there from 1978-85 and compiled a 4-3 record, including their 1984 national title. The Cougars also won the 1985 WAC championship and the automatic Holiday Bowl bid, but due to mutual agreement (maybe BYU fatigue by the Holiday Bowl) the Cougars accepted an invite to the Citrus Bowl.
It’s still true and Vegas still might opt for the Utes. Due to reasons already noted, I think the ‘Veg’ (former Cougar star wide receiver Austin Collie’s nickname for the Vegas Bowl) will choose BYU. The Cougs sell-out the ‘Veg’ in every visit, including regular-season games. Should it risk not inviting BYU and earn less money? Utah’s also a great draw, but why the risk? Maybe the bowl and its four-year suitor like each other the more they date.
The You’ll-Wish-You-Had-Never-Heard-of-This-Place Bowl will just have to go without BYU for at least another year.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Saturday, November 28, 2009
The Things of My Soul
179th Semi-annual General Conference
Inspiring Remarks of the First Presidency
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
“Come, Listen to a Prophet’s Voice”
In this season of thanksgiving, valiant members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are continually grateful for our Heavenly Father’s sweet Spirit at the Oct. 3-4, 2009, general conference.
The announcement by President Thomas S. Monson of five new temples is wonderful! They are: Brigham City, Utah; Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; Concepcion, Chile, Fortaleza, Brazil and Sapporo, Japan. Besides 130 in operation, 16 temples are planned or under construction.
For me personally, the Sat., Oct. 3 opening session of conference became that much sweeter with Brigham City’s blessing. There’s something comforting about a temple in any city named after a prophet.
The prophet also observed that 83 percent of all church members live within 200 miles of a temple, which will increase with more construction. These are apparently the highest categorical numbers ever in this time of countless blessings.
President Monson also documented the respective March and August temple dedications of Utah’s and the church’s newest in Draper and Oquirrh Mountain, which sandwiched a “spectacular” two-night celebration. Fourteen thousand youth from both temple districts celebrated Utah’s rich legacy in a song-and-dance gala, he said.
It was humbling for me to sustain President Monson as prophet, seer and revelator of the church to begin conference. As the church’s fifth Article of Faith says, We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof. I testify our beloved prophet meets each of those criteria.
When attending ward, stake, regional and general conferences, I always try to take good written notes. The following thoughts are my best edited recollections of the last general conference.
“The church continues to grow and spreads far and wide as missionaries and others serve,” concluded the prophet in his opening remarks. “We should welcome and fellowship new converts.”
During the priesthood session, the prophet declared anger “solves nothing” and “precedes sin.” He quoted the Savior’s admonition to the Nephites (3 Ne.13:30): “Behold, this is not my doctrine, to stir up the hearts of men with anger, one against another; but this is my doctrine, that such things should be done away.”
The prophet used such examples of the first latter-day president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Thomas B. Marsh and his wife, Elizabeth. Their quarrel with a neighbor over milk and cream ultimately led to their apostasy and great misery, including Elder Marsh’s provocation of the cruel 1838 Missouri extermination order resulting in the suffering and death of many LDS.
When Elder Marsh apologized to President Brigham Young 19 years later, he greatly lamented the loss of the Gift of the Holy Ghost, fellowship of members and many other blessings.
In President Monson’s testimony to close conference, he praised the enrichment of the Spirit’s edification and appropriateness of prayers, music and talents. “Study the talks and incorporate them into your lives.”
Obedience helps us “survive the destruction of the wind and waves” he said. The Lord “will bless us as we obey.” The prophet used the example of King Benjamin’s people, whose belief in his words caused a mighty change in their hearts to do good continually.
“I love you. Remember me and all the general authorities in your prayers. May God give us the strength, ability and determination to do what is right. God is personal and real. He is our Father.”
We Also Sustain the Prophet’s Counselors
First Presidency first counselor Henry B. Eyring encouraged listeners on Sunday morning to “Prepare to meet the Savior” by becoming more Christlike.” When faithful parents honor temple covenants, they continue to righteously influence their children. President Eyring also testified that when youth are taught of the Lord, “great shall be the peace of thy children.” (3 Nephi 22:13)
President Eyring admonished priesthood holders in Saturday night’s meeting to be ready to serve. For example, keeping consecrated oil in several places enabled him to be ready whenever needed to participate in priesthood blessings. His readiness, despite an impatient doctor, helped heal a seriously injured girl who learned to walk again.
Preparation for charitable service “begins in families, in Aaronic Priesthood quorums and mostly in the private lives of young men,” he testified. With essential assistance from their quorums and families preparation by the young men must be in fulfilling their respective destinies as God’s priesthood servants.
President Eyring taught “preparation is to go and do whatever the Lord wants done as the world prepares for His coming. …each of us can prepare.”
Being ready requires developing faith in the Savior, charity, prayer, scripture study, knowledge, self-confidence and obedience to the commandments, said President Eyring.
President Dieter Uctdorf, second counselor in the First Presidency, offered dry humor in his Saturday morning address. Referring to traditional and well-loved Primary songs “Give,” Said the Little Stream and Popcorn Popping, he noted LDS sing about “streams that talk and trees that produce popcorn.”
This prompted me to ask my sweet wife if talking streams nourish the trees producing popcorn. She just looked at me incredulously and stared.
He taught becoming a true disciple of Christ means living by eternal principles or the weightier matters of the law (Doc. & Cov.117:8). By allowing the commandment to love “lead the way in our lives … our life in Jesus Christ takes on more meaning.”
President Uctdorf testified as we rejoice in our Heavenly Father and draw near to Him, He does the same to us. “We become more holy and align ourselves with Him,” which allows the Savior to fulfill His promise: “Ye shall search for me and find me with all your heart.”
He concluded by testifying that divine love changes reluctance and fear into obedience and love, “the way of the true disciple. When we find answers in love, we will find what it means to be a disciple of Christ.”
In priesthood meeting, President Uctdorf exhorted priesthood holders to “remain steadfast in hope. Adversity is overcome with faith, courage and tenacity.” Its lessons help form character and shape eternity.
While we should “stay content to change,” he said, it’s always important to work to full capacity. “Cultivate a reputation of excellence. Our work cannot be delegated, due to its eternal nature. We seek knowledge of that which is lovely and of good report and praiseworthy.”
BYU Football Is My Second Wife:
Riding the Cougar Football Roller Coaster
by Dale J. Neilson
Latter-day Times Newspapers
Bite the Bullet or Bite the Dust
Another one bit the dust last week. Another will chomp down today.
BYU and its fans didn’t bite last week and hope the Runnin’ Utes will this afternoon. Both have a 9-2 record overall and are 6-1 in Mountain West Conference.
Harrrump-bump-bump! And another bites, another one bites, another one bites the dust! Harump-bump—bump-bump-bump! Another one bites the dust!
So goes the popular tune of the 90s adopted by winners everywhere.
In review, hometown BYU played perhaps its best half of the season in the first 30 minutes Nov. 21 in grinding the Air Force Academy Falcons into the ground by 38-21. I expected a similar score, but the style was totally unexpected.
Three consecutive BYU turnovers to begin its sloppy second half reminded me of the same old, ‘same old’. Would the real BYU—just—puh-lease! JUST PLAY SOLID FOOTBALL THE WHOLE GAME!
Thank you, Thankyouverymuch. I feel much better dumping the tizzy fit.
Incidentally, hometown AFA gave the undefeated Texas Christian Horned Frogs their best game to date in a 20-17 loss.
Yeah, it was those same leapin’ and lopin’ frogs which hopped through BYU by that horrific 31-7 trashing at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Ouch. The game couldn’t end quickly enough for me. BYU was as bad as its pathetic stadium sod.
As the agonizingly slow play came to an end, I was reminded of Styx’s popular 80s hit Love Hurts. “Wo-oo-, love hurrrrr-ts” crows the lead singer. Does it ever!
Next to my son’s high school swimming team, BYU is the team I emotionally live, love and die for. Like other diehard Cougar fans, I hate to see my team lose. Some losses hurt way more than others. Virtually all loyal sports fans will agree.
Preparation Pleases, Pride Pacifies
With AFA playing TCU so much better at home than the Cougs did, it would naturally seem the Falcons would successfully ‘wing’ it against BYU. Instead, their wings were literally torn off before the nose dive.
Still, AFA could teach BYU a thing or two about showing up emotionally this season to play every game. This distinct pattern of the Cougars’ apparent lack of, or perhaps over-reaction to preparation, is disappointing. It comes back to coaching.
No doubt Coach Bronco Mendenhall continues getting hit with all types of unsolicited advice on improving the team. Do they naively think he’s spaced off how to be successful? Remember, Mendenhall’s won over 80 percent of the games he’s coached at BYU. He must be doing something right.
People just need to get off their ‘high horse’. Nobody has a perfect day every day, not even the know-it-alls!
BYU had the talent even without matching speed to play TCU closer. As others have noted, the Cougs have a history of repeatedly beating superior speed with effort and precision. Without it, they become slaughter fodder.
The Cougars overconfidence against visiting Florida State may have resulted in that lopsided, 54-28 loss to the Seminoles. Defensive end Jan Jorgensen suggested BYU’s wins over Oklahoma and Tulane may have given it a false sense of security.
“Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” (Prov. 16:18) Mendenhall knows it, seen it and seeks to correct it. Trust me.
Sandwiched between wins at Wyoming and over Air Force, the Cougs laid a ghastly stink bomb at New Mexico in a hopefully-forgettable 24-19 win. Say what!? We Cougar fans don’t ever want to forget our team’s victories, just the way some were played and their score.
After today’s game, Utah fans will try for a long time to forget this BYU victory. They’ll be glad the Cougar cornerstones of quarterback Max Hall and tight end Dennis Pitta, both seniors, are gone.
179th Semi-annual General Conference
Inspiring Remarks of the First Presidency
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
“Come, Listen to a Prophet’s Voice”
In this season of thanksgiving, valiant members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are continually grateful for our Heavenly Father’s sweet Spirit at the Oct. 3-4, 2009, general conference.
The announcement by President Thomas S. Monson of five new temples is wonderful! They are: Brigham City, Utah; Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; Concepcion, Chile, Fortaleza, Brazil and Sapporo, Japan. Besides 130 in operation, 16 temples are planned or under construction.
For me personally, the Sat., Oct. 3 opening session of conference became that much sweeter with Brigham City’s blessing. There’s something comforting about a temple in any city named after a prophet.
The prophet also observed that 83 percent of all church members live within 200 miles of a temple, which will increase with more construction. These are apparently the highest categorical numbers ever in this time of countless blessings.
President Monson also documented the respective March and August temple dedications of Utah’s and the church’s newest in Draper and Oquirrh Mountain, which sandwiched a “spectacular” two-night celebration. Fourteen thousand youth from both temple districts celebrated Utah’s rich legacy in a song-and-dance gala, he said.
It was humbling for me to sustain President Monson as prophet, seer and revelator of the church to begin conference. As the church’s fifth Article of Faith says, We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof. I testify our beloved prophet meets each of those criteria.
When attending ward, stake, regional and general conferences, I always try to take good written notes. The following thoughts are my best edited recollections of the last general conference.
“The church continues to grow and spreads far and wide as missionaries and others serve,” concluded the prophet in his opening remarks. “We should welcome and fellowship new converts.”
During the priesthood session, the prophet declared anger “solves nothing” and “precedes sin.” He quoted the Savior’s admonition to the Nephites (3 Ne.13:30): “Behold, this is not my doctrine, to stir up the hearts of men with anger, one against another; but this is my doctrine, that such things should be done away.”
The prophet used such examples of the first latter-day president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Thomas B. Marsh and his wife, Elizabeth. Their quarrel with a neighbor over milk and cream ultimately led to their apostasy and great misery, including Elder Marsh’s provocation of the cruel 1838 Missouri extermination order resulting in the suffering and death of many LDS.
When Elder Marsh apologized to President Brigham Young 19 years later, he greatly lamented the loss of the Gift of the Holy Ghost, fellowship of members and many other blessings.
In President Monson’s testimony to close conference, he praised the enrichment of the Spirit’s edification and appropriateness of prayers, music and talents. “Study the talks and incorporate them into your lives.”
Obedience helps us “survive the destruction of the wind and waves” he said. The Lord “will bless us as we obey.” The prophet used the example of King Benjamin’s people, whose belief in his words caused a mighty change in their hearts to do good continually.
“I love you. Remember me and all the general authorities in your prayers. May God give us the strength, ability and determination to do what is right. God is personal and real. He is our Father.”
We Also Sustain the Prophet’s Counselors
First Presidency first counselor Henry B. Eyring encouraged listeners on Sunday morning to “Prepare to meet the Savior” by becoming more Christlike.” When faithful parents honor temple covenants, they continue to righteously influence their children. President Eyring also testified that when youth are taught of the Lord, “great shall be the peace of thy children.” (3 Nephi 22:13)
President Eyring admonished priesthood holders in Saturday night’s meeting to be ready to serve. For example, keeping consecrated oil in several places enabled him to be ready whenever needed to participate in priesthood blessings. His readiness, despite an impatient doctor, helped heal a seriously injured girl who learned to walk again.
Preparation for charitable service “begins in families, in Aaronic Priesthood quorums and mostly in the private lives of young men,” he testified. With essential assistance from their quorums and families preparation by the young men must be in fulfilling their respective destinies as God’s priesthood servants.
President Eyring taught “preparation is to go and do whatever the Lord wants done as the world prepares for His coming. …each of us can prepare.”
Being ready requires developing faith in the Savior, charity, prayer, scripture study, knowledge, self-confidence and obedience to the commandments, said President Eyring.
President Dieter Uctdorf, second counselor in the First Presidency, offered dry humor in his Saturday morning address. Referring to traditional and well-loved Primary songs “Give,” Said the Little Stream and Popcorn Popping, he noted LDS sing about “streams that talk and trees that produce popcorn.”
This prompted me to ask my sweet wife if talking streams nourish the trees producing popcorn. She just looked at me incredulously and stared.
He taught becoming a true disciple of Christ means living by eternal principles or the weightier matters of the law (Doc. & Cov.117:8). By allowing the commandment to love “lead the way in our lives … our life in Jesus Christ takes on more meaning.”
President Uctdorf testified as we rejoice in our Heavenly Father and draw near to Him, He does the same to us. “We become more holy and align ourselves with Him,” which allows the Savior to fulfill His promise: “Ye shall search for me and find me with all your heart.”
He concluded by testifying that divine love changes reluctance and fear into obedience and love, “the way of the true disciple. When we find answers in love, we will find what it means to be a disciple of Christ.”
In priesthood meeting, President Uctdorf exhorted priesthood holders to “remain steadfast in hope. Adversity is overcome with faith, courage and tenacity.” Its lessons help form character and shape eternity.
While we should “stay content to change,” he said, it’s always important to work to full capacity. “Cultivate a reputation of excellence. Our work cannot be delegated, due to its eternal nature. We seek knowledge of that which is lovely and of good report and praiseworthy.”
BYU Football Is My Second Wife:
Riding the Cougar Football Roller Coaster
by Dale J. Neilson
Latter-day Times Newspapers
Bite the Bullet or Bite the Dust
Another one bit the dust last week. Another will chomp down today.
BYU and its fans didn’t bite last week and hope the Runnin’ Utes will this afternoon. Both have a 9-2 record overall and are 6-1 in Mountain West Conference.
Harrrump-bump-bump! And another bites, another one bites, another one bites the dust! Harump-bump—bump-bump-bump! Another one bites the dust!
So goes the popular tune of the 90s adopted by winners everywhere.
In review, hometown BYU played perhaps its best half of the season in the first 30 minutes Nov. 21 in grinding the Air Force Academy Falcons into the ground by 38-21. I expected a similar score, but the style was totally unexpected.
Three consecutive BYU turnovers to begin its sloppy second half reminded me of the same old, ‘same old’. Would the real BYU—just—puh-lease! JUST PLAY SOLID FOOTBALL THE WHOLE GAME!
Thank you, Thankyouverymuch. I feel much better dumping the tizzy fit.
Incidentally, hometown AFA gave the undefeated Texas Christian Horned Frogs their best game to date in a 20-17 loss.
Yeah, it was those same leapin’ and lopin’ frogs which hopped through BYU by that horrific 31-7 trashing at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Ouch. The game couldn’t end quickly enough for me. BYU was as bad as its pathetic stadium sod.
As the agonizingly slow play came to an end, I was reminded of Styx’s popular 80s hit Love Hurts. “Wo-oo-, love hurrrrr-ts” crows the lead singer. Does it ever!
Next to my son’s high school swimming team, BYU is the team I emotionally live, love and die for. Like other diehard Cougar fans, I hate to see my team lose. Some losses hurt way more than others. Virtually all loyal sports fans will agree.
Preparation Pleases, Pride Pacifies
With AFA playing TCU so much better at home than the Cougs did, it would naturally seem the Falcons would successfully ‘wing’ it against BYU. Instead, their wings were literally torn off before the nose dive.
Still, AFA could teach BYU a thing or two about showing up emotionally this season to play every game. This distinct pattern of the Cougars’ apparent lack of, or perhaps over-reaction to preparation, is disappointing. It comes back to coaching.
No doubt Coach Bronco Mendenhall continues getting hit with all types of unsolicited advice on improving the team. Do they naively think he’s spaced off how to be successful? Remember, Mendenhall’s won over 80 percent of the games he’s coached at BYU. He must be doing something right.
People just need to get off their ‘high horse’. Nobody has a perfect day every day, not even the know-it-alls!
BYU had the talent even without matching speed to play TCU closer. As others have noted, the Cougs have a history of repeatedly beating superior speed with effort and precision. Without it, they become slaughter fodder.
The Cougars overconfidence against visiting Florida State may have resulted in that lopsided, 54-28 loss to the Seminoles. Defensive end Jan Jorgensen suggested BYU’s wins over Oklahoma and Tulane may have given it a false sense of security.
“Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” (Prov. 16:18) Mendenhall knows it, seen it and seeks to correct it. Trust me.
Sandwiched between wins at Wyoming and over Air Force, the Cougs laid a ghastly stink bomb at New Mexico in a hopefully-forgettable 24-19 win. Say what!? We Cougar fans don’t ever want to forget our team’s victories, just the way some were played and their score.
After today’s game, Utah fans will try for a long time to forget this BYU victory. They’ll be glad the Cougar cornerstones of quarterback Max Hall and tight end Dennis Pitta, both seniors, are gone.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Steadfast and Immovable
Prophet Exemplifies Our Savior
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Taking Charge of Being in Charge
In the Oct. 31 edition of the Latter-day Times Newspapers I noted the Prophet Joseph Smith and several Brethren were imprisoned at the Richmond, Mo., jail in 1838.
Instead of execution, the jailed Brethren were subjected to the insidious bragging of rape, torture and murder among Latter-day Saints, for which many early church history antagonists were responsible.
It happened during this very time 181 years ago, perhaps even on Nov. 11 (today). According to the TV series The Joseph Smith Papers, imprisonment at Richmond happened soon after the Prophet and others were released from the Independence, Mo., jail, on Nov.8.
One of the imprisoned Brethren at Richmond, Parley P. Pratt, wrote of the verbal disgust, shock and horror he and others were subjected to in the jail. He was “so filled with the spirit of indignant justice that I could scarcely refrain from rising upon my feet and rebuking the guards” but said nothing to anyone else, including the prophet, though he knew he was awake. (Parley P. Pratt, Autobiography of Parley P. Pratt [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1938], p. 228-230.)
Maybe all the Brethren there assumed the Prophet Joseph Smith would take charge in such dire circumstances. They may have rightfully feared one false move or complaint could result in their mass execution.
They had every reason to believe their captors wouldn’t make any empty threats.
“Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer
of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only”
This is the dire setting in which the Prophet Joseph, in chains, quietly arose to his feet and strongly rebuked the wicked guards: “Silence! Ye fiends of the infernal pit! In the name of Jesus Christ I rebuke you, and command you to be still. I will not live another minute and hear such language. Cease such talk, or you or I die THIS INSTANT!” (ibid.)
The tension of the wicked guards must have been throttling, according to Brother Pratt, as the prophet “stood erect in terrible majesty. Chained, and without a weapon, calm, unruffled and dignified as an angel, he looked down upon his quailing guards, whose weapons were lowered or dropped to the ground, whose knees smote together, and who, shrinking into a corner, or crouching at his feet, begged his pardon, and remained quiet till a change of guards.” (ibid.)
I believe terrible majesty means that majesty of perfect righteousness of which Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son Jesus Christ possess. It’s terrible to evil, which cannot withstand such righteousness and cowardly backs down every time (Matt. 4: 10-11). The Richmond jail guards exemplified cowardly evil in backing down to the righteous Prophet.
Who else even more severely persecuted was also bound, without a weapon but ever in complete control of His circumstances? With all the hatred surrounding Him, yet He still dignified righteousness. He, even our precious Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the Angel of Angels, the Beloved Son of God.
Even the centurion at Christ’s death, “which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God.” (Mark 15:39)
Among all of our Heavenly Father’s children, not one of us is even in the same ‘spiritual universe’ as our Beloved Savior. But the Prophet Joseph, indeed the ‘best of the rest’ of us, “has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man who has ever lived in it.” (Doc. & Cov. 135:3)
Brother Pratt’s amazing memory of the Prophet’s fiery response of “dignity and majesty” to combat wickedness is ageless. (ibid.) He also wrote of trying to imagine kings, presidents, other magistrates and law-making bodies poised to enact or enforce laws, decide between life and death, and determine the fate of nations and kingdoms.
Despite it all, “… but dignity and majesty have I seen but once, as it stood in chains, at midnight, in a dungeon, in an obscure village of Missouri.” (ibid.)
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Halloween, Haun’s Mill Massacre Linked Inseperately
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Halloween Week Rough Ride for Pioneer LDS
While Halloween is known virtually worldwide as Oct. 31, not nearly as many know it as the day after the Haun’s Mill Massacre.
That was yesterday, Oct. 30, for those keeping score.
This week notes not only the 181st anniversary of this horrific event, but also of Missouri Gov. Lilburn W. Boggs’ infamous (among Latter-day Saints) extermination order (Oct. 27), the Oct. 24 Battle of Crooked River and the Oct. 31 arrest and ultimate imprisonment in the Richmond, Mo., jail of the Prophet Joseph Smith and other church leaders.
Halloween week seems to carry more macabre reminders for LDS than first thought. But I still appreciate children’s enthusiasm for the day.
These points I considered while watching the 2008 TV series of The Joseph Smith Papers. Its feature presentation documented the options of carrying out Boggs’ command.
The governor wrote in the extermination order that “Mormons must be treated as enemies and must be exterminated or driven from the state if necessary for the public good.” (History of the Church 3:175)
This is also the funeral date of martyred apostle David W. Patten, the first apostle to die in this dispensation. At the services, the prophet said, “There lies a man that has done just as he said he would—he laid down his life for his friends.” (HC 3:175)
Living Faith Precedes Major, Minor Miracles
The Haun’s Mill Massacre, which apparently began in early evening, was a brazen and murderous extension of Boggs’ orders ruthlessly targeting church members as enemies. It “included the deliberate and cold-blooded murder of children.” (Antone Clark, Noble Pioneer: A Biography of Ezra Thompson Clark [2002], 72)
Chilling stories abound in the pleasure the killers and tormentors took in delivering pain and death, such as with martyr Sardius Smith.
Eight year-old brother Alma’s hip was virtually shot off at point-blank range, causing blood to gush forth. His mother’s fervent heartfelt prayer for inspiration impressed her to pack cooled ashes into his body’s cavity. Immediately, this faithful mom called for assistance from a priesthood holder nearby.
The man gave Alma a blessing, promising the boy he would not only recover, but walk again and live a productive life.
All of these inspired promises came true, just as promises were made and kept to two other Almas of integrity as recounted in the Book of Mormon.
I first heard this incredible but true story of Alma Smith from seminary teacher Larry LeBaron about 35 years ago. I’ve never known of any other source to corroborate Brother LeBaron’s claim of the ashes, the stirring priesthood blessing and faith in the Savior ultimately healing Alma.
That certainly doesn’t discredit it, though. Apparently, no one else besides the Prophet Joseph has seen and heard the Father and the Son in vision since ancient times, either. But there are millions upon millions of us who know for ourselves it is true.
We all have similar miracles in our lives. Most aren’t as dramatic, but faith-building and obedience aren’t about drama. They’re about following Heavenly Father through His Beloved Son Jesus Christ.
Sometimes it isn’t easy, but always well worth the long-term reward.
Loyalty to God Supersedes Life Itself
2008’s Oct. 26 Joseph Smith Papers said when the prophet Joseph and other Brethren were arrested Oct. 31, they were taken to Far West, Mo. On Nov.1, commanding Maj. Gen. Samuel D. Lucas of the Missouri state militia with mob mentality ordered Brig. Gen. Alexander Doniphan to execute the Brethren at 9 a.m. the next day.
Doniphan, long-considered a friend of the church rebuffed his superior officer’s request, adding, “if you execute those men, I will hold you responsible before an earthly tribunal, so help me God!” (Joseph Fielding Smith, Essentials of Church History, [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1953], 241)
This was a tremendous career and personal safety risk for Doniphan. Not only could he have been court-martialed, but also executed. He, his family and friends may have been victims of retaliation, but no record of any is known.
Lucas apparently didn’t pursue any action against his junior officer. He still ordered the prisoners to be taken to Independence, Mo., for execution.
My great-great-great grandfather, Timothy Baldwin Clark and his family (including son Ezra, my great-great-grandfather) were among those expunged from Missouri, but apparently they escaped serious injury. Like so many other saints, though, the Clarks’ crops and belongings were destroyed by mobbers.
On Nov. 1, T.B. Clark, who fought at Crooked River, was jailed with the initial roundup of church leaders when the mob-like militia entered Far West. He was imprisoned for eight days before release due to age. His will to fight at Crooked River must have influenced his younger children at home.
“The man who had taken his time joining the faith was … defending it with a rifle and … willing to go to jail for doing so.” Timing of the battle and his wife Polly’s declining health may have put his family’s future at significant risk (Noble Pioneer, 73).
"Be of Good Cheer, Brethren"
On Nov. 3, the prophet spoke to his comrades in a subdued but cheerful and confidential tone to “Be of good cheer, brethren; the word of the Lord came to me last night that our lives should be given us, and that whatever we may suffer during this captivity, not one of our lives should be taken.” (Parley P. Pratt, Autobiography of Parley P. Pratt [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1938], p. 187).
While the prisoners were paraded through the streets as a show of Lucas’ power, a woman asked the prophet Joseph if he was the Savior. “No, indeed,” replied Joseph. “I profess to be nothing but a man, and a minister of salvation, sent by Jesus Christ to preach the Gospel.” (HC 3:200-201)
The prophet taught the startled but inquiring woman about the Fourth Article of Faith: faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism by immersion for the remission of sins and the Gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. Several including the inquisitive lady, her companions and wondering soldiers listened with fascinated attention.
The woman rejoiced and prayed that the Brethren would be released from their captors. She and many others were rewarded generously for their steadfast and immovable faith.
Joseph Smith’s public prophecy a few months earlier that an elder of the church would teach the gospel in Jackson County before 1839 was indeed fulfilled. Is it any wonder that it was by the prophet himself?
While imprisoned in Independence (probably Nov. 4-8, according to The Joseph Smith Papers), the prophet said the Brethren mostly taught the gospel, explained LDS practices and developed friendships. Prejudice lessened and the church gained favor in the hearts and minds of most of the locals.
Response of Dignity and Majesty
Meanwhile, another execution of the church leaders now imprisoned in Richmond was ordered by Boggs to be carried out by General John B. Clark. It also failed, but the charges were reduced to “treason, murder, arson, larceny, theft, and stealing,” which apparently brought some amusement to Hyrum Smith. “The poor deluded general did not know the difference between theft, larceny and stealing.” (HC 3:417)
Instead of execution, the jailed Brethren were subjected to the insidious bragging of rape, torture and murder by wicked guards.
This is the setting in which the Prophet Joseph, in chains, thus rebuked their evil captors: “Silence! Ye fiends of the infernal pit! In the name of Jesus Christ I rebuke you, and command you to be still. I will not live another minute and hear such language. Cease such talk, or you or I die this instant!”
Parley P. Pratt’s amazing discourse on this fiery response of ‘dignity and majesty’ to combat wickedness is ageless. It will be reviewed in next week’s Latter-day Times Newspapers.
Poetry Fit for Apostolic Ancestry
by LDS for Poetic Justice
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
An unknown and maybe former Salt Lake City West High and LDS seminary student has at least one claim to anonymous fame: she’s written an essay on the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
It’s not only written in apostolic line of seniority, but also in three sentences. Who else do you know so inspired to pen such a literary work? The original, written before the deaths of beloved First Presidency members Gordon B. Hinckley and James E. Faust and apostle Joseph B. Wirthlin, was necessarily edited for the updated version.
The Original Signature Apostolic Poem
Without further adieu, here’s the original of what may become the signature poem of About the Brethren – A Book of Essays.
There once was a lunch maker named Packer, who made lunch with potato chips for his friend Perry, whose doctor Nelson said it would make his arteries as hard as Oaks, which caused his death.
At his funeral, a Ballard was sung about the Wirthlin of souls. At night, the Scottish tissue was used by Hales from Holland, who gave everyone an Eyring, so they all coughed ‘Uctdorf’ and went to Bednar.
New-and-Improved Apostolic Poetic Justice
With the new First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve, this current version includes all 15 of them in apostolic order: Lunch maker Mon’s son Packer made lunch with potato chips for his friend Perry, whose doctor Nelson said it would make his arteries as hard as Oaks, causing his death.
At the funeral, a Ballard sung by a teacher using Scott’s tissues actually Hales from Holland, who gave everyone an Eyring. They all coughed ‘Uctdorf’ and went to Bednar after the Cook ate dinner with Christoffer’s son and Andersen.
Can Latter-day Times readers improvise upon this poem? Your submissions are welcome at editor@latterdaytimes.com.
I’ll Go, Say and Be, Dear Lord—According to Me!
Sustaining Officers—Some ‘More’ Than Others
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
We Must Go, Say and Be as He Commands
In our general, stake and ward conferences, we raise our arm to the square to sustain our general and local church leaders. It’s a covenant we make or continually reaffirm with our Heavenly Father.
Do we keep that covenant thoughtfully? Or are we just going through the motions? Is it just a formality to avoid (the bishop’s) attention and later do whatever our lazy and critical behinds please?
Several years ago, the satirical I Won’t Go Where You Want Me to Go was written about LDS who hesitate or refuse to serve and included the melody of church hymn I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go. Besides the title, I only remember this line: I’ll go where you want me to go, dear Lord, just don’t ask me to sing in the choir or help a Boy Scout build and start a campfire.
LDT desires the author to please contact us (editor@latterdaytimes.com)
so we can correspond with him or her.
It seems some have the attitude of I’ll go, do and say what I want ME to go, do and say dear Lord, so keep your big honkin’ nose outta my business!
For example, one active member told his high priests’ group leader in 2008 what “He’s done enough in the church and now it’s time to let somebody else do it.” Soon thereafter, he chastised his current group leader for adding a widow living alone to his three-family home teaching beat.
One auxiliary leader complained in 2008 that a woman “is using the [church welfare] system but that’s not my decision to make” implicating the bishop as either stupid or naive.
Another leader also repeatedly complained in 2006 about someone else in a similar plight and then dropped this bombshell: “I’m thinking about resigning because of it.” He didn’t, but obviously doesn’t understand the inspired bishop alone has final authority over such.
The man personalized something which was none of his business.
After the stake presidency visited a bishopric, a bishop’s counselor complained to a fellow ward member the brethren admonished them to change their respective schedules to spend more time with the youth. The counselor whined there wasn’t even enough time to address the ward’s financial and welfare issues, let alone take on youth activities.
Where’s is the man’s faith in the Savior?
This edict is not merely the stake presidency commanding and demanding as the hot-headed counselor implied, but following inspired church policy.
In the same tirade, the angry counselor with an apparently long-held grudge against the stake president tore into his character. It seemed to finally boil over after beginning when they simultaneously served in the same stake mission presidency several years earlier.
Another man was released for medical reasons from a calling he thoroughly enjoyed, but condemned another who held it later. The first man said the new leader had an aggressive personality, tends to offend others and the bishop should have chosen another. He may have just been expressing indirect frustration over his own poor health. Later, he agreed his replacement was called of God, seemingly having overcome or forgotten the earlier rant.
“he that receiveth my servants receiveth me”
The lack of confidentiality among such complainers is wrong. Telling any ward member such information which should only be discussed with the bishop is a big-time breach of trust. These confidants are some of the closest to priesthood leaders, yet getting on their ‘high horse’ seems to empower their very poor examples.
It reeks of Brutus-like behavior, though they’re not trying to betray and murder anyone as Brutus did Julius Caesar. Unquestionably, they impugned the leaders’ character. They expressed immature feelings. Maybe it was just the unjustified heat of the moment.
We’re continually and rightfully reminded that when we sustain our local leaders, we also promise to give full support to our beloved prophet and the other general authorities. The reverse is also true.
They are our Beloved Savior’s representatives here on Earth. We sustain Him and should do so for those whom He has chosen.
And also all they who receive this priesthood receive me, saith the Lord; For he that receiveth my servants receiveth me; (Doc. & Cov. 84:35-36)
The previous over-reactionary examples don’t decry the tremendous charitable service these church members gave and continue to give. We all have thoughtless moments when we let our guard down against negative thoughts, but that’s no excuse. It shows we’re human and need to remain faithful while we continually repent.
Steadfast and Immovable
Prophet Exemplifies Our Savior
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Taking Charge of Being in Charge
In the Oct. 31 edition of the Latter-day Times Newspapers I noted the Prophet Joseph Smith and several Brethren were imprisoned at the Richmond, Mo., jail in 1838.
Instead of execution, the jailed Brethren were subjected to the insidious bragging of rape, torture and murder among Latter-day Saints, for which many early church history antagonists were responsible.
It happened during this very time 181 years ago, perhaps even on Nov. 11 (today). According to the TV series The Joseph Smith Papers, imprisonment at Richmond happened soon after the Prophet and others were released from the Independence, Mo., jail, on Nov.8.
One of the imprisoned Brethren at Richmond, Parley P. Pratt, wrote of the verbal disgust, shock and horror he and others were subjected to in the jail. He was “so filled with the spirit of indignant justice that I could scarcely refrain from rising upon my feet and rebuking the guards” but said nothing to anyone else, including the prophet, though he knew he was awake. (Parley P. Pratt, Autobiography of Parley P. Pratt [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1938], p. 228-230.)
Maybe all the Brethren there assumed the Prophet Joseph Smith would take charge in such dire circumstances. They may have rightfully feared one false move or complaint could result in their mass execution.
They had every reason to believe their captors wouldn’t make any empty threats.
“Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer
of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only”
This is the dire setting in which the Prophet Joseph, in chains, quietly arose to his feet and strongly rebuked the wicked guards: “Silence! Ye fiends of the infernal pit! In the name of Jesus Christ I rebuke you, and command you to be still. I will not live another minute and hear such language. Cease such talk, or you or I die THIS INSTANT!” (ibid.)
The tension of the wicked guards must have been throttling, according to Brother Pratt, as the prophet “stood erect in terrible majesty. Chained, and without a weapon, calm, unruffled and dignified as an angel, he looked down upon his quailing guards, whose weapons were lowered or dropped to the ground, whose knees smote together, and who, shrinking into a corner, or crouching at his feet, begged his pardon, and remained quiet till a change of guards.” (ibid.)
I believe terrible majesty means that majesty of perfect righteousness of which Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son Jesus Christ possess. It’s terrible to evil, which cannot withstand such righteousness and cowardly backs down every time (Matt. 4: 10-11). The Richmond jail guards exemplified cowardly evil in backing down to the righteous Prophet.
Who else even more severely persecuted was also bound, without a weapon but ever in complete control of His circumstances? With all the hatred surrounding Him, yet He still dignified righteousness. He, even our precious Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the Angel of Angels, the Beloved Son of God.
Even the centurion at Christ’s death, “which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God.” (Mark 15:39)
Among all of our Heavenly Father’s children, not one of us is even in the same ‘spiritual universe’ as our Beloved Savior. But the Prophet Joseph, indeed the ‘best of the rest’ of us, “has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man who has ever lived in it.” (Doc. & Cov. 135:3)
Brother Pratt’s amazing memory of the Prophet’s fiery response of “dignity and majesty” to combat wickedness is ageless. (ibid.) He also wrote of trying to imagine kings, presidents, other magistrates and law-making bodies poised to enact or enforce laws, decide between life and death, and determine the fate of nations and kingdoms.
Despite it all, “… but dignity and majesty have I seen but once, as it stood in chains, at midnight, in a dungeon, in an obscure village of Missouri.” (ibid.)
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Halloween, Haun’s Mill Massacre Linked Inseperately
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Halloween Week Rough Ride for Pioneer LDS
While Halloween is known virtually worldwide as Oct. 31, not nearly as many know it as the day after the Haun’s Mill Massacre.
That was yesterday, Oct. 30, for those keeping score.
This week notes not only the 181st anniversary of this horrific event, but also of Missouri Gov. Lilburn W. Boggs’ infamous (among Latter-day Saints) extermination order (Oct. 27), the Oct. 24 Battle of Crooked River and the Oct. 31 arrest and ultimate imprisonment in the Richmond, Mo., jail of the Prophet Joseph Smith and other church leaders.
Halloween week seems to carry more macabre reminders for LDS than first thought. But I still appreciate children’s enthusiasm for the day.
These points I considered while watching the 2008 TV series of The Joseph Smith Papers. Its feature presentation documented the options of carrying out Boggs’ command.
The governor wrote in the extermination order that “Mormons must be treated as enemies and must be exterminated or driven from the state if necessary for the public good.” (History of the Church 3:175)
This is also the funeral date of martyred apostle David W. Patten, the first apostle to die in this dispensation. At the services, the prophet said, “There lies a man that has done just as he said he would—he laid down his life for his friends.” (HC 3:175)
Living Faith Precedes Major, Minor Miracles
The Haun’s Mill Massacre, which apparently began in early evening, was a brazen and murderous extension of Boggs’ orders ruthlessly targeting church members as enemies. It “included the deliberate and cold-blooded murder of children.” (Antone Clark, Noble Pioneer: A Biography of Ezra Thompson Clark [2002], 72)
Chilling stories abound in the pleasure the killers and tormentors took in delivering pain and death, such as with martyr Sardius Smith.
Eight year-old brother Alma’s hip was virtually shot off at point-blank range, causing blood to gush forth. His mother’s fervent heartfelt prayer for inspiration impressed her to pack cooled ashes into his body’s cavity. Immediately, this faithful mom called for assistance from a priesthood holder nearby.
The man gave Alma a blessing, promising the boy he would not only recover, but walk again and live a productive life.
All of these inspired promises came true, just as promises were made and kept to two other Almas of integrity as recounted in the Book of Mormon.
I first heard this incredible but true story of Alma Smith from seminary teacher Larry LeBaron about 35 years ago. I’ve never known of any other source to corroborate Brother LeBaron’s claim of the ashes, the stirring priesthood blessing and faith in the Savior ultimately healing Alma.
That certainly doesn’t discredit it, though. Apparently, no one else besides the Prophet Joseph has seen and heard the Father and the Son in vision since ancient times, either. But there are millions upon millions of us who know for ourselves it is true.
We all have similar miracles in our lives. Most aren’t as dramatic, but faith-building and obedience aren’t about drama. They’re about following Heavenly Father through His Beloved Son Jesus Christ.
Sometimes it isn’t easy, but always well worth the long-term reward.
Loyalty to God Supersedes Life Itself
2008’s Oct. 26 Joseph Smith Papers said when the prophet Joseph and other Brethren were arrested Oct. 31, they were taken to Far West, Mo. On Nov.1, commanding Maj. Gen. Samuel D. Lucas of the Missouri state militia with mob mentality ordered Brig. Gen. Alexander Doniphan to execute the Brethren at 9 a.m. the next day.
Doniphan, long-considered a friend of the church rebuffed his superior officer’s request, adding, “if you execute those men, I will hold you responsible before an earthly tribunal, so help me God!” (Joseph Fielding Smith, Essentials of Church History, [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1953], 241)
This was a tremendous career and personal safety risk for Doniphan. Not only could he have been court-martialed, but also executed. He, his family and friends may have been victims of retaliation, but no record of any is known.
Lucas apparently didn’t pursue any action against his junior officer. He still ordered the prisoners to be taken to Independence, Mo., for execution.
My great-great-great grandfather, Timothy Baldwin Clark and his family (including son Ezra, my great-great-grandfather) were among those expunged from Missouri, but apparently they escaped serious injury. Like so many other saints, though, the Clarks’ crops and belongings were destroyed by mobbers.
On Nov. 1, T.B. Clark, who fought at Crooked River, was jailed with the initial roundup of church leaders when the mob-like militia entered Far West. He was imprisoned for eight days before release due to age. His will to fight at Crooked River must have influenced his younger children at home.
“The man who had taken his time joining the faith was … defending it with a rifle and … willing to go to jail for doing so.” Timing of the battle and his wife Polly’s declining health may have put his family’s future at significant risk (Noble Pioneer, 73).
"Be of Good Cheer, Brethren"
On Nov. 3, the prophet spoke to his comrades in a subdued but cheerful and confidential tone to “Be of good cheer, brethren; the word of the Lord came to me last night that our lives should be given us, and that whatever we may suffer during this captivity, not one of our lives should be taken.” (Parley P. Pratt, Autobiography of Parley P. Pratt [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1938], p. 187).
While the prisoners were paraded through the streets as a show of Lucas’ power, a woman asked the prophet Joseph if he was the Savior. “No, indeed,” replied Joseph. “I profess to be nothing but a man, and a minister of salvation, sent by Jesus Christ to preach the Gospel.” (HC 3:200-201)
The prophet taught the startled but inquiring woman about the Fourth Article of Faith: faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism by immersion for the remission of sins and the Gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. Several including the inquisitive lady, her companions and wondering soldiers listened with fascinated attention.
The woman rejoiced and prayed that the Brethren would be released from their captors. She and many others were rewarded generously for their steadfast and immovable faith.
Joseph Smith’s public prophecy a few months earlier that an elder of the church would teach the gospel in Jackson County before 1839 was indeed fulfilled. Is it any wonder that it was by the prophet himself?
While imprisoned in Independence (probably Nov. 4-8, according to The Joseph Smith Papers), the prophet said the Brethren mostly taught the gospel, explained LDS practices and developed friendships. Prejudice lessened and the church gained favor in the hearts and minds of most of the locals.
Response of Dignity and Majesty
Meanwhile, another execution of the church leaders now imprisoned in Richmond was ordered by Boggs to be carried out by General John B. Clark. It also failed, but the charges were reduced to “treason, murder, arson, larceny, theft, and stealing,” which apparently brought some amusement to Hyrum Smith. “The poor deluded general did not know the difference between theft, larceny and stealing.” (HC 3:417)
Instead of execution, the jailed Brethren were subjected to the insidious bragging of rape, torture and murder by wicked guards.
This is the setting in which the Prophet Joseph, in chains, thus rebuked their evil captors: “Silence! Ye fiends of the infernal pit! In the name of Jesus Christ I rebuke you, and command you to be still. I will not live another minute and hear such language. Cease such talk, or you or I die this instant!”
Parley P. Pratt’s amazing discourse on this fiery response of ‘dignity and majesty’ to combat wickedness is ageless. It will be reviewed in next week’s Latter-day Times Newspapers.
Poetry Fit for Apostolic Ancestry
by LDS for Poetic Justice
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
An unknown and maybe former Salt Lake City West High and LDS seminary student has at least one claim to anonymous fame: she’s written an essay on the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
It’s not only written in apostolic line of seniority, but also in three sentences. Who else do you know so inspired to pen such a literary work? The original, written before the deaths of beloved First Presidency members Gordon B. Hinckley and James E. Faust and apostle Joseph B. Wirthlin, was necessarily edited for the updated version.
The Original Signature Apostolic Poem
Without further adieu, here’s the original of what may become the signature poem of About the Brethren – A Book of Essays.
There once was a lunch maker named Packer, who made lunch with potato chips for his friend Perry, whose doctor Nelson said it would make his arteries as hard as Oaks, which caused his death.
At his funeral, a Ballard was sung about the Wirthlin of souls. At night, the Scottish tissue was used by Hales from Holland, who gave everyone an Eyring, so they all coughed ‘Uctdorf’ and went to Bednar.
New-and-Improved Apostolic Poetic Justice
With the new First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve, this current version includes all 15 of them in apostolic order: Lunch maker Mon’s son Packer made lunch with potato chips for his friend Perry, whose doctor Nelson said it would make his arteries as hard as Oaks, causing his death.
At the funeral, a Ballard sung by a teacher using Scott’s tissues actually Hales from Holland, who gave everyone an Eyring. They all coughed ‘Uctdorf’ and went to Bednar after the Cook ate dinner with Christoffer’s son and Andersen.
Can Latter-day Times readers improvise upon this poem? Your submissions are welcome at editor@latterdaytimes.com.
I’ll Go, Say and Be, Dear Lord—According to Me!
Sustaining Officers—Some ‘More’ Than Others
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
We Must Go, Say and Be as He Commands
In our general, stake and ward conferences, we raise our arm to the square to sustain our general and local church leaders. It’s a covenant we make or continually reaffirm with our Heavenly Father.
Do we keep that covenant thoughtfully? Or are we just going through the motions? Is it just a formality to avoid (the bishop’s) attention and later do whatever our lazy and critical behinds please?
Several years ago, the satirical I Won’t Go Where You Want Me to Go was written about LDS who hesitate or refuse to serve and included the melody of church hymn I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go. Besides the title, I only remember this line: I’ll go where you want me to go, dear Lord, just don’t ask me to sing in the choir or help a Boy Scout build and start a campfire.
LDT desires the author to please contact us (editor@latterdaytimes.com)
so we can correspond with him or her.
It seems some have the attitude of I’ll go, do and say what I want ME to go, do and say dear Lord, so keep your big honkin’ nose outta my business!
For example, one active member told his high priests’ group leader in 2008 what “He’s done enough in the church and now it’s time to let somebody else do it.” Soon thereafter, he chastised his current group leader for adding a widow living alone to his three-family home teaching beat.
One auxiliary leader complained in 2008 that a woman “is using the [church welfare] system but that’s not my decision to make” implicating the bishop as either stupid or naive.
Another leader also repeatedly complained in 2006 about someone else in a similar plight and then dropped this bombshell: “I’m thinking about resigning because of it.” He didn’t, but obviously doesn’t understand the inspired bishop alone has final authority over such.
The man personalized something which was none of his business.
After the stake presidency visited a bishopric, a bishop’s counselor complained to a fellow ward member the brethren admonished them to change their respective schedules to spend more time with the youth. The counselor whined there wasn’t even enough time to address the ward’s financial and welfare issues, let alone take on youth activities.
Where’s is the man’s faith in the Savior?
This edict is not merely the stake presidency commanding and demanding as the hot-headed counselor implied, but following inspired church policy.
In the same tirade, the angry counselor with an apparently long-held grudge against the stake president tore into his character. It seemed to finally boil over after beginning when they simultaneously served in the same stake mission presidency several years earlier.
Another man was released for medical reasons from a calling he thoroughly enjoyed, but condemned another who held it later. The first man said the new leader had an aggressive personality, tends to offend others and the bishop should have chosen another. He may have just been expressing indirect frustration over his own poor health. Later, he agreed his replacement was called of God, seemingly having overcome or forgotten the earlier rant.
“he that receiveth my servants receiveth me”
The lack of confidentiality among such complainers is wrong. Telling any ward member such information which should only be discussed with the bishop is a big-time breach of trust. These confidants are some of the closest to priesthood leaders, yet getting on their ‘high horse’ seems to empower their very poor examples.
It reeks of Brutus-like behavior, though they’re not trying to betray and murder anyone as Brutus did Julius Caesar. Unquestionably, they impugned the leaders’ character. They expressed immature feelings. Maybe it was just the unjustified heat of the moment.
We’re continually and rightfully reminded that when we sustain our local leaders, we also promise to give full support to our beloved prophet and the other general authorities. The reverse is also true.
They are our Beloved Savior’s representatives here on Earth. We sustain Him and should do so for those whom He has chosen.
And also all they who receive this priesthood receive me, saith the Lord; For he that receiveth my servants receiveth me; (Doc. & Cov. 84:35-36)
The previous over-reactionary examples don’t decry the tremendous charitable service these church members gave and continue to give. We all have thoughtless moments when we let our guard down against negative thoughts, but that’s no excuse. It shows we’re human and need to remain faithful while we continually repent.
Friday, October 23, 2009
The Things of My Soul
Adopt Integrity to Adopt Precious Children
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
This sad story of lies and selfishness was told to me by a credible friend. Names and other personal information have been withheld for privacy reasons.
Many years ago, a married couple forged their oldest daughter’s birth certificate. The husband is not her birth father, but his wife is the birth mother. The daughter, almost 40, was born illegitimately and her parents lied to conceal the child’s true birthday.
To this day, the daughter is not only unaware her mother’s husband is not her birth father, but that her legal birth date is a fake.
Rather than adopt his daughter legally, this afore-mentioned wicked man and his dubious wife skirted the law to apparently hide her previous infidelity.
Many birth parents who seek to avoid struggling with the challenges of out-of-wedlock babies give up their children for a better life in adoption. Like so many other adoptive parents, my wife and I are grateful for both sets of our children’s loving birth parents, primarily their birth mothers.
Our children don’t disrespect their birth parents in any way, but revere their timeless sacrifice.
Giving any child the opportunity to grow and experience life in a nurturing atmosphere usually teaches respect for self, others and Heavenly Father. Deceit has no place there.
My friend’s lying brother is the actual stepfather. I don’t know who the illegitimate birth was supposedly hidden from, but the man’s ‘daughter’, could be victimized in this vicious masquerade. If she ever needs critical medical information from her birth father, how will she obtain it? Without more information, she probably wouldn’t ask her parents.
Would her parents continue perpetrating this repugnant lie and cover their obnoxious egos and over-sized rear ends at the expense of her life?
Regardless, this secret combination could still unravel quickly and leave both of her parents lying—literally—in its wake.
Wouldn’t her finding out now after almost 40 years rather than later be better? Absolutely! Better late than never, but even better never late! This couple’s festering hideous lie became huge Mt. Everest because they wouldn’t dig down early the growing molehill.
The daughter will eventually learn the truth about her dishonest parents. It may negatively change her and her own family’s feelings for them—forever. That’s nothing to say of what her apparently-unknowing siblings, their families and others close to the parents may feel.
Unanswered medical questions and psychological damage suffered by the daughter may place her parents in serious legal trouble.
My friend told me his niece, oldest child in the family, “feels different” among her siblings. “She doesn’t look like them, she doesn’t think like them,” he said. Maybe it’s because of how she was treated, subtly or not, by her parents.
Her mother should have avoided promiscuity, or at least admitted her pregnancy and moved on. Because she didn’t, many could be hurt by progressively horrific choices.
BYU Football is My Second Wife
She’s feeling better, but all isn’t well
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Since BYU’s horrendous home-opening Sept. 19 loss in Provo to the Florida State Seminoles, the Cougars have improved. How much is unknown, because successive wins over the Colorado State Rams, Utah State Aggies, UNLV Runnin’ Rebels and San Diego State Aztecs were predictable.
It’s like you teaching youth Sunday School class. The kids answered questions, but that’s it. No elaboration. For all you knew, they were mind-numbed robots on cruise control.
Except for the Runnin’ Rebels, the Cougars struggled somewhat against their post-‘Noles opponents. Sometimes it was very difficult, like when SDSU QB Ryan Hindley repeatedly lit up BYU’s secondary for touchdown passes. If Hindley is average at best, as some reporters insist, what does that say for the Cougar defenders? Sometimes they seem inept.
Grant Stucker, the Rams’ field general, seemed to have all day while searching for an open receiver. The Cougs’ early pass interception against the Aggies resulted in a USU touchdown and cost the Y critical early momentum.
The only pain UNLV inflicted upon BYU was a 75-yard TD pass play, but the game was a rout by then.
Tomorrow’s opponent, the Texas Christian Horned Frogs, could make FSU’s rout of the Cougs seem like a ‘boring’ church meeting. The 6-0 ‘Frogs routed BYU 32-7 last year in Fort Worth, Tex. and are very capable again of such firepower.
TCU also beat BYU 51-50 in that memorable, controversial 2005 overtime Provo game. You may remember TV replays of the ‘Frogs running back fumbling before the touchdown was inconclusive.
Speed is mainly what TCU has over the Cougars and lots of it. BYU has repeatedly shown, though, when it doesn’t commit turnovers it can be very good. When the Y is sloppy, especially against a fast, athletic team, great pain and sorrow for its fans usually result.
TCU’s world-class defense is partnered with seasoned and mobile QB in Andy Dalton. Its well-documented BYU has major problems when defending players with strength, speed and mobility. FSU’s Christian Ponder had a career game against the Cougs in passing, running and plowing through their defense.
To win, BYU must avoid turnovers, create momentum with time-consuming drives, contain Dalton in the pocket and tightly defend TCU’s receivers. If the Cougars offensively control the clock in scoring touchdowns, the ‘Frogs BCS hopes could vaporize in Provo’s cool air.
Winning this game might be as easy as paying attention in church meetings. But you must always be alert and opportunistic to snag success.
Adopt Integrity to Adopt Precious Children
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
This sad story of lies and selfishness was told to me by a credible friend. Names and other personal information have been withheld for privacy reasons.
Many years ago, a married couple forged their oldest daughter’s birth certificate. The husband is not her birth father, but his wife is the birth mother. The daughter, almost 40, was born illegitimately and her parents lied to conceal the child’s true birthday.
To this day, the daughter is not only unaware her mother’s husband is not her birth father, but that her legal birth date is a fake.
Rather than adopt his daughter legally, this afore-mentioned wicked man and his dubious wife skirted the law to apparently hide her previous infidelity.
Many birth parents who seek to avoid struggling with the challenges of out-of-wedlock babies give up their children for a better life in adoption. Like so many other adoptive parents, my wife and I are grateful for both sets of our children’s loving birth parents, primarily their birth mothers.
Our children don’t disrespect their birth parents in any way, but revere their timeless sacrifice.
Giving any child the opportunity to grow and experience life in a nurturing atmosphere usually teaches respect for self, others and Heavenly Father. Deceit has no place there.
My friend’s lying brother is the actual stepfather. I don’t know who the illegitimate birth was supposedly hidden from, but the man’s ‘daughter’, could be victimized in this vicious masquerade. If she ever needs critical medical information from her birth father, how will she obtain it? Without more information, she probably wouldn’t ask her parents.
Would her parents continue perpetrating this repugnant lie and cover their obnoxious egos and over-sized rear ends at the expense of her life?
Regardless, this secret combination could still unravel quickly and leave both of her parents lying—literally—in its wake.
Wouldn’t her finding out now after almost 40 years rather than later be better? Absolutely! Better late than never, but even better never late! This couple’s festering hideous lie became huge Mt. Everest because they wouldn’t dig down early the growing molehill.
The daughter will eventually learn the truth about her dishonest parents. It may negatively change her and her own family’s feelings for them—forever. That’s nothing to say of what her apparently-unknowing siblings, their families and others close to the parents may feel.
Unanswered medical questions and psychological damage suffered by the daughter may place her parents in serious legal trouble.
My friend told me his niece, oldest child in the family, “feels different” among her siblings. “She doesn’t look like them, she doesn’t think like them,” he said. Maybe it’s because of how she was treated, subtly or not, by her parents.
Her mother should have avoided promiscuity, or at least admitted her pregnancy and moved on. Because she didn’t, many could be hurt by progressively horrific choices.
BYU Football is My Second Wife
She’s feeling better, but all isn’t well
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Since BYU’s horrendous home-opening Sept. 19 loss in Provo to the Florida State Seminoles, the Cougars have improved. How much is unknown, because successive wins over the Colorado State Rams, Utah State Aggies, UNLV Runnin’ Rebels and San Diego State Aztecs were predictable.
It’s like you teaching youth Sunday School class. The kids answered questions, but that’s it. No elaboration. For all you knew, they were mind-numbed robots on cruise control.
Except for the Runnin’ Rebels, the Cougars struggled somewhat against their post-‘Noles opponents. Sometimes it was very difficult, like when SDSU QB Ryan Hindley repeatedly lit up BYU’s secondary for touchdown passes. If Hindley is average at best, as some reporters insist, what does that say for the Cougar defenders? Sometimes they seem inept.
Grant Stucker, the Rams’ field general, seemed to have all day while searching for an open receiver. The Cougs’ early pass interception against the Aggies resulted in a USU touchdown and cost the Y critical early momentum.
The only pain UNLV inflicted upon BYU was a 75-yard TD pass play, but the game was a rout by then.
Tomorrow’s opponent, the Texas Christian Horned Frogs, could make FSU’s rout of the Cougs seem like a ‘boring’ church meeting. The 6-0 ‘Frogs routed BYU 32-7 last year in Fort Worth, Tex. and are very capable again of such firepower.
TCU also beat BYU 51-50 in that memorable, controversial 2005 overtime Provo game. You may remember TV replays of the ‘Frogs running back fumbling before the touchdown was inconclusive.
Speed is mainly what TCU has over the Cougars and lots of it. BYU has repeatedly shown, though, when it doesn’t commit turnovers it can be very good. When the Y is sloppy, especially against a fast, athletic team, great pain and sorrow for its fans usually result.
TCU’s world-class defense is partnered with seasoned and mobile QB in Andy Dalton. Its well-documented BYU has major problems when defending players with strength, speed and mobility. FSU’s Christian Ponder had a career game against the Cougs in passing, running and plowing through their defense.
To win, BYU must avoid turnovers, create momentum with time-consuming drives, contain Dalton in the pocket and tightly defend TCU’s receivers. If the Cougars offensively control the clock in scoring touchdowns, the ‘Frogs BCS hopes could vaporize in Provo’s cool air.
Winning this game might be as easy as paying attention in church meetings. But you must always be alert and opportunistic to snag success.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
The Things of My Soul
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Welcome to Round 2 of Our Blog
Because you’re here for another installment of The Things of My Soul, we must be doing something right. Right?
Except that I missed this column in September. So I’ll write two in October.
Last time, I wrote that the Oquirrh Mountain Temple dedication had a deep affect upon me. As this column already documented, I felt an abundance of the Holy Ghost at both the Draper and Oquirrh Mountain temples before dedicatory services.
The Spirit at each was beyond words. It was tremendous.
Opportunities to visit Houses of the Lord should be revered and filled passionately. The late, great, President Gordon B. Hinckley said the highest form of service is doing that for others what they can’t do for themselves. Where better than in the temples of the Lord?
Performing proxy ordinances benefits more than the dead. It stirs up the Spirit of the Lord in those serving in the temple. We receive revelations on completing our responsibilities in our families, church callings, professions and dealing with people and our lives in general. We learn how to demonstrate charity and be a good example to others.
We learn what our loving Heavenly Father would have us do in literally standing as His witnesses at all times and in all things and places even until death. We do these things because we seek redemption from Him to gain place in the First Resurrection and eternal life. (Mosiah 18:9) “This is the desire of our hearts.” (Mosiah 18:11)
There is no better way to learn of Him than participation in general conference, which is today and tomorrow, Oct. 3-4, in the church conference center. The speakers’ messages of hope are spiritually riveting and always strengthen those seeking truth.
As always, those who don’t attend can always tune into TV, radio and Internet broadcasts.
I usually take notes while tuning in via TV with my family. Note-taking provides me with immediate information in my own words, which helps with future Family Home Evening lessons, home teaching and other general conference discussions. Sometimes, I receive personal revelation in the midst of taking notes, which is also documented.
Taking notes also forces me to pay complete attention to these inspired talks.
Of course there is always the Ensign church magazine, which has the complete text of each address. Sometimes though, it doesn’t arrive in the mail for a few weeks. I use my notes in the meantime and it becomes the conference supplement when the Ensign arrives.
Listening to the prophets testify of truth “is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth” (Romans 1:16).
I testify that obeying the Lord’s commandments means we listen to our inspired leaders and follow His counsel. This is the way He’s always directed and will direct His people.
Attending the holy temple whenever possible, following our inspired leaders’ counsel and obeying all our Heavenly Father’s commandments is what He would always have us do.
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Welcome to Round 2 of Our Blog
Because you’re here for another installment of The Things of My Soul, we must be doing something right. Right?
Except that I missed this column in September. So I’ll write two in October.
Last time, I wrote that the Oquirrh Mountain Temple dedication had a deep affect upon me. As this column already documented, I felt an abundance of the Holy Ghost at both the Draper and Oquirrh Mountain temples before dedicatory services.
The Spirit at each was beyond words. It was tremendous.
Opportunities to visit Houses of the Lord should be revered and filled passionately. The late, great, President Gordon B. Hinckley said the highest form of service is doing that for others what they can’t do for themselves. Where better than in the temples of the Lord?
Performing proxy ordinances benefits more than the dead. It stirs up the Spirit of the Lord in those serving in the temple. We receive revelations on completing our responsibilities in our families, church callings, professions and dealing with people and our lives in general. We learn how to demonstrate charity and be a good example to others.
We learn what our loving Heavenly Father would have us do in literally standing as His witnesses at all times and in all things and places even until death. We do these things because we seek redemption from Him to gain place in the First Resurrection and eternal life. (Mosiah 18:9) “This is the desire of our hearts.” (Mosiah 18:11)
There is no better way to learn of Him than participation in general conference, which is today and tomorrow, Oct. 3-4, in the church conference center. The speakers’ messages of hope are spiritually riveting and always strengthen those seeking truth.
As always, those who don’t attend can always tune into TV, radio and Internet broadcasts.
I usually take notes while tuning in via TV with my family. Note-taking provides me with immediate information in my own words, which helps with future Family Home Evening lessons, home teaching and other general conference discussions. Sometimes, I receive personal revelation in the midst of taking notes, which is also documented.
Taking notes also forces me to pay complete attention to these inspired talks.
Of course there is always the Ensign church magazine, which has the complete text of each address. Sometimes though, it doesn’t arrive in the mail for a few weeks. I use my notes in the meantime and it becomes the conference supplement when the Ensign arrives.
Listening to the prophets testify of truth “is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth” (Romans 1:16).
I testify that obeying the Lord’s commandments means we listen to our inspired leaders and follow His counsel. This is the way He’s always directed and will direct His people.
Attending the holy temple whenever possible, following our inspired leaders’ counsel and obeying all our Heavenly Father’s commandments is what He would always have us do.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Impacting Present and Future
while remembering lessons of the past
check out our 2009 Fab Mormon Nine
review the LDS Great 8 of 2008
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Learning from lessons of the past has always been important to faithful members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It’s not only our history, but in everything we do.
The Latter-day Times’ predicted top LDS newsmakers for 2009 and also the 2008 review-for-you-who-haven’t-seen-it-yet reflects lessons learned. Only two repeaters, LDS President Thomas S. Monson and University of Utah football coach Kyle Whittingham, were named to each. Top vote-getters of each category are in descending order of their past or current impact upon church members as perceived by me, LDTN’s publisher.
Applications for LDS culture watchers are now open!
2009 Fabulous Mormon 9 Preview
of Probable Newsmakers
President Thomas S. Monson, for his general conference talks and dedications of the new Utah temples, Draper and Oquirrh Mountain.
BYU football coach Bronco Mendenhall, for continuing to build successful student-athletes before his professional success.
The late business mogul Larry H. Miller, who consistently sought to portray Utah as a great place to live, love and work.
University of Utah football coach Kyle Whittingham, who demonstrated hard work and teamwork did take the Sugar Bowl-winning Utes to the brink of a national championship.
Apostle David K. Bednar, whose trademark April 2009 conference and Oquirrh Mountain Temple dedication talks showed humility and gratitude for Christ’s Atonement.
The late BYU professor Truman Madsen, whom one writer said could eloquently make deep doctrine simple to understand and obey.
General Relief Society first counselor Margaret Lifferth, whose April conference and Oquirrh Mountain Temple dedication talks taught happiness comes through accepting personal responsibility.
The late BYU professor Robert Matthews, whom one writer said was instrumental in recovering significant portions of church history.
Boston Celtics general manager Danny Ainge, who’s apparent heart attack landed him in the hospital but didn’t steal his fighting spirit.
Honorable mention: my wife and others, who work full-time, serve in a weighty calling, cook dinner many nights and take time for their family; my mom, mother-in-law and others who continue to struggle with poor health, but righteously influence others to lead correctly.
LDS Great 8 of 2008 Review of Newsmakers
The death of President Gordon B. Hinckley, who taught us again how to laugh, love Heavenly Father and always search for wisdom in all His works.
President Thomas S. Monson, whose ascension to the presidency is the miracle we anticipated, while his general conference talks are always uplifting and teach us charity.
Mitt Romney, who made the best-ever LDS run for the U.S. presidency with his alluring charisma, resonating voice and John Wayne-like demeanor.
American Idol superstar-singer David Archuleta, whose golden-boy image electrified and endeared us to him.
UofU football coach Kyle Whittingham, who qualified his undefeated Utah Utes for the Sugar Bowl in one of the most amazing runs in college football history.
The death of Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin (President Hinckley’s cousin), just days after his Utes finished their 12-0 regular season. Elder Wirthlin is renowned for his integrity.
General Relief Society President Julie Beck, whose great April general conference talk on motherhood was stirring in its spirit of leadership and responsibility in the home.
Sister Frances Monson, whose grit and determination to overcome apparent discomfort or pain is steadfast and immovable. Her pioneer spirit to succeed is commendable.
BYU Football is My Second Wife
and other terms of long endearment
Cougar basketball is my third spouse
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Don’t get the wrong idea, or it’s your bad.
This column is solely based on intended dry humor, because I dearly love my wife and children more than I can say. Nothing must ever take their place, or it’s my very bad. To avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest, I told my wife about this column shortly after I posted it on the Web. Her only reaction was to ask how many would read it.
I don’t know, but hopefully a lot. So please tell your friends, family and others.
Comparing my love for BYU sports to a polygamist wife shouldn’t be misconstrued as some arrogant sexual fantasy, but as a loyal sports fan with strong emotions for his team’s success.
Who would have ever thought about BYU basketball as a third wife, anyway? I’m just getting used to Cougar football as the second.
Many of us sports junkies have at least one ‘wife’ beyond to whom we’re married. Since I follow all BYU sports, I’m ‘married’ to football and basketball and committed at different levels to all the others.
It’s almost like I’m living several different lives—one for each sport.
Maybe a TV sitcom on my fictional life would be My Wives, My Lives or Wives of My Lives. It sounds like quiet, family entertainment, doesn’t it? Riiiight.
My harem doesn’t even include any high school or professional team for whom I follow. You have to draw the line somewhere.
I’m a sports polygamist somewhat obsessed with cheering my teams into slaughtering the opposition. I’m most interested in BYU stuffing its opponents, of which the opposite happened on Sorrowful Saturday (Sept. 19).
Naturally, I received a taste of my own beat-‘em-up medicine.
My now 2-1 Cougars were banished to the trash heap of 2009 BCS rejects in the very good Florida State Seminoles’ 54-28 slaughter. How bad was it? Bad enough the Y’s collective ego was confined to intensive care indefinitely just like the aspirations and dreams of many Cougar fans.
Don’t laugh—you or your team (even if it’s BYU) may be next.
I’m still irritated by BYU’s inability to move the ball, maintain possession, control the line of scrimmage both ways, defensively control the quarterback, defend receivers and score.
The Cougars’ problems may be traced to the coaching-staff counted 27 player errors critical to game breakdown and ultimate lopsided loss. The biggest culprit seemed to be defense, which is why it was repeatedly popped—hard.
This wasn’t my doing. Maybe it was set up by the four-turnover win over the over-ranked Sooners. Oklahoma wasn’t as good as previously billed, while BYU was horrifically inept against the Seminoles.
BYU’s nine turnovers on the season left it 104th nationally in turnover margin, almost enough to start a profitable pastry shop. Saturday’s (Sept. 26) opponent, the 3-0 Colorado State Rams, is second in the nation with 10 net take-aways. You know CSU loves those turnovers, because they’re so tasty and very easy to get.
Why can’t the Cougs cook me yummy treats, instead of giving them away and causing big pain? The cook is the one getting cooked.
When a company’s employee performs badly and hurts its competitiveness, like my team, it’s time for discipline. The Y felt it Saturday with a smattering of groans from fans sounding like boos.
I’m demanding much better.
How can I trust BYU’s play will improve by Saturday? Buy the coaches and players flowers? Maybe take them to a movie and dinner? I’ve already planned our night out: a la roasted leg of CSU Rams seasoned with just the right amount of bar-b-qued Rams sauce, with Rams-fried rice, Rams-tossed salad, Rams-creamed soda and a gallon of chocolate-chunk Rams-rodded ice cream.
We’ll see the world premiere of Rams QB-Sad-sacked by Y. D-backs.
Nothing but the finest cuisine and entertainment for my BYU Cougars.
while remembering lessons of the past
check out our 2009 Fab Mormon Nine
review the LDS Great 8 of 2008
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Learning from lessons of the past has always been important to faithful members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It’s not only our history, but in everything we do.
The Latter-day Times’ predicted top LDS newsmakers for 2009 and also the 2008 review-for-you-who-haven’t-seen-it-yet reflects lessons learned. Only two repeaters, LDS President Thomas S. Monson and University of Utah football coach Kyle Whittingham, were named to each. Top vote-getters of each category are in descending order of their past or current impact upon church members as perceived by me, LDTN’s publisher.
Applications for LDS culture watchers are now open!
2009 Fabulous Mormon 9 Preview
of Probable Newsmakers
President Thomas S. Monson, for his general conference talks and dedications of the new Utah temples, Draper and Oquirrh Mountain.
BYU football coach Bronco Mendenhall, for continuing to build successful student-athletes before his professional success.
The late business mogul Larry H. Miller, who consistently sought to portray Utah as a great place to live, love and work.
University of Utah football coach Kyle Whittingham, who demonstrated hard work and teamwork did take the Sugar Bowl-winning Utes to the brink of a national championship.
Apostle David K. Bednar, whose trademark April 2009 conference and Oquirrh Mountain Temple dedication talks showed humility and gratitude for Christ’s Atonement.
The late BYU professor Truman Madsen, whom one writer said could eloquently make deep doctrine simple to understand and obey.
General Relief Society first counselor Margaret Lifferth, whose April conference and Oquirrh Mountain Temple dedication talks taught happiness comes through accepting personal responsibility.
The late BYU professor Robert Matthews, whom one writer said was instrumental in recovering significant portions of church history.
Boston Celtics general manager Danny Ainge, who’s apparent heart attack landed him in the hospital but didn’t steal his fighting spirit.
Honorable mention: my wife and others, who work full-time, serve in a weighty calling, cook dinner many nights and take time for their family; my mom, mother-in-law and others who continue to struggle with poor health, but righteously influence others to lead correctly.
LDS Great 8 of 2008 Review of Newsmakers
The death of President Gordon B. Hinckley, who taught us again how to laugh, love Heavenly Father and always search for wisdom in all His works.
President Thomas S. Monson, whose ascension to the presidency is the miracle we anticipated, while his general conference talks are always uplifting and teach us charity.
Mitt Romney, who made the best-ever LDS run for the U.S. presidency with his alluring charisma, resonating voice and John Wayne-like demeanor.
American Idol superstar-singer David Archuleta, whose golden-boy image electrified and endeared us to him.
UofU football coach Kyle Whittingham, who qualified his undefeated Utah Utes for the Sugar Bowl in one of the most amazing runs in college football history.
The death of Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin (President Hinckley’s cousin), just days after his Utes finished their 12-0 regular season. Elder Wirthlin is renowned for his integrity.
General Relief Society President Julie Beck, whose great April general conference talk on motherhood was stirring in its spirit of leadership and responsibility in the home.
Sister Frances Monson, whose grit and determination to overcome apparent discomfort or pain is steadfast and immovable. Her pioneer spirit to succeed is commendable.
BYU Football is My Second Wife
and other terms of long endearment
Cougar basketball is my third spouse
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Don’t get the wrong idea, or it’s your bad.
This column is solely based on intended dry humor, because I dearly love my wife and children more than I can say. Nothing must ever take their place, or it’s my very bad. To avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest, I told my wife about this column shortly after I posted it on the Web. Her only reaction was to ask how many would read it.
I don’t know, but hopefully a lot. So please tell your friends, family and others.
Comparing my love for BYU sports to a polygamist wife shouldn’t be misconstrued as some arrogant sexual fantasy, but as a loyal sports fan with strong emotions for his team’s success.
Who would have ever thought about BYU basketball as a third wife, anyway? I’m just getting used to Cougar football as the second.
Many of us sports junkies have at least one ‘wife’ beyond to whom we’re married. Since I follow all BYU sports, I’m ‘married’ to football and basketball and committed at different levels to all the others.
It’s almost like I’m living several different lives—one for each sport.
Maybe a TV sitcom on my fictional life would be My Wives, My Lives or Wives of My Lives. It sounds like quiet, family entertainment, doesn’t it? Riiiight.
My harem doesn’t even include any high school or professional team for whom I follow. You have to draw the line somewhere.
I’m a sports polygamist somewhat obsessed with cheering my teams into slaughtering the opposition. I’m most interested in BYU stuffing its opponents, of which the opposite happened on Sorrowful Saturday (Sept. 19).
Naturally, I received a taste of my own beat-‘em-up medicine.
My now 2-1 Cougars were banished to the trash heap of 2009 BCS rejects in the very good Florida State Seminoles’ 54-28 slaughter. How bad was it? Bad enough the Y’s collective ego was confined to intensive care indefinitely just like the aspirations and dreams of many Cougar fans.
Don’t laugh—you or your team (even if it’s BYU) may be next.
I’m still irritated by BYU’s inability to move the ball, maintain possession, control the line of scrimmage both ways, defensively control the quarterback, defend receivers and score.
The Cougars’ problems may be traced to the coaching-staff counted 27 player errors critical to game breakdown and ultimate lopsided loss. The biggest culprit seemed to be defense, which is why it was repeatedly popped—hard.
This wasn’t my doing. Maybe it was set up by the four-turnover win over the over-ranked Sooners. Oklahoma wasn’t as good as previously billed, while BYU was horrifically inept against the Seminoles.
BYU’s nine turnovers on the season left it 104th nationally in turnover margin, almost enough to start a profitable pastry shop. Saturday’s (Sept. 26) opponent, the 3-0 Colorado State Rams, is second in the nation with 10 net take-aways. You know CSU loves those turnovers, because they’re so tasty and very easy to get.
Why can’t the Cougs cook me yummy treats, instead of giving them away and causing big pain? The cook is the one getting cooked.
When a company’s employee performs badly and hurts its competitiveness, like my team, it’s time for discipline. The Y felt it Saturday with a smattering of groans from fans sounding like boos.
I’m demanding much better.
How can I trust BYU’s play will improve by Saturday? Buy the coaches and players flowers? Maybe take them to a movie and dinner? I’ve already planned our night out: a la roasted leg of CSU Rams seasoned with just the right amount of bar-b-qued Rams sauce, with Rams-fried rice, Rams-tossed salad, Rams-creamed soda and a gallon of chocolate-chunk Rams-rodded ice cream.
We’ll see the world premiere of Rams QB-Sad-sacked by Y. D-backs.
Nothing but the finest cuisine and entertainment for my BYU Cougars.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
BYU and Football's Reverb:
Top 10 Cougars Enjoying Pre-season Ride
and Why I’m an 85 Percent Prognosticator
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
10 – Observations Before and After Games: BYU beat Oklahoma 31-6 the only other time (1994) the teams played. Shouldn’t the Sooners and Tulane Green Wave (split two games with BYU) finish second to the Cougars again, sooner rather than later?
I’m right: Yesss! Sooner than virtually all Sooner fans could ever imagine, while Tulane was Tu-thless in its Sept. 12 debilitating loss.
9 – B & A: In the alphabet, ‘B’ is before ‘O’ and ‘T’, so BYU and its wins come before Oklahoma and Tulane.
I’m right: Even the alphabet agrees with me!
8 – B & A: Provo is further north than Norman, Okla. (home of the Sooners) and New Orleans (Green Wave’s campus), La. The further north you are, the closer you are to the North Pole and Santa Claus. More toys. More candy. More happiness. More wins.
I’m right: Living further north is more profitable.
7 – B & A: With a BYU win over Sooner Nation in Dallas, it would set the stage for a Utah football team sweep in Cowboys Stadium. Bingham High (South Jordan, Utah) will play national power Trinity High (Euless, Tex.) there on Mon., Sept. 7.
Didn’t happen! Trinity whipped the Miners by 42-21.
6 – B & A: The first-ever college football game in the Dallas Cowboys’ stadium just as well be won by the Cougars. It’s long overdue for underdog BYU to beat an Associated Press-ranked, non-conference foe.
I’m right: BYU ended its endless drought, maybe ‘Homa’s BCS hopes, and created its own team of destiny.
5 – B & A: Since a 26-6 win over Arizona State in 1998, the Cougars have lost 12 consecutive non-conference games to AP Top 25 teams. BYU’s 13th try for a win over a ranked team is its lucky number.
I’m right: ‘Unlucky’ number 13 has its day, at least for a day.
4 – B & A: It’s Texas native and wide receiver McKay Jacobsen’s homecoming-of-sorts, because he grew up near the stadium. Shouldn’t the local boy make good?
I’m right: Jacobsen caught the winning TD pass. What can I say?
3 – B & A: Ty Detmer, my favorite BYU player of all time, is also from Texas. Maybe his spirit will carry the Cougars to victory, like it did when he was the Cougars’ quarterback.
I’m vaguely right: No doubt he was doing his best to help the Cougars.
2 – B & A: My father-in-law’s TV will undoubtedly be on its best behavior, giving BYU an increased edge to edge the renowned Sooners.
I’m right: Never has a TV served so diligently with so much humility.
1 – B & A: Because I’m a BYU fan! Well, duh!
I’m right: For 34 years and counting!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
The Things of My Soul
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Welcome to Our Latter-day Newspaper Blog
Welcome to the independently-owned and operated Latter-day Times Newspapers, located in Salt Lake City, Utah. It is patterned after the old Latter-day Sentinel, which was published out of Oregon and later Arizona.
We’re literally sharing our copyright and only agenda: the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It’s our staff’s ideal, which is why we faithfully endorse the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, its doctrine, policies and leadership.
Besides The Things of My Soul, today’s other scroll-down features are: Witness of Savior of the World, Gordon Hinckley Times Three, Football Begat Friendship, Sisters are for Loving. and Joy-riding the Memories of Life.
Our format will soon change to a more reader-friendly design. In the meantime, please bear with us.
I’ll deliver this first-ever LDT editor’s column every month. You will also receive timely news and other information. We’ll deliver, even if you disagree with us. Aren’t you the lucky one?
So tell us what you think. Hammer us, chide us, feed us dinner, whatever. Just tell us what’s on your mind and in your heart. Your story or other newspaper ideas are also welcome. Write: editor@latter-daytimes.com.
The column’s name, of course, is taken from the prophet Nephi’s testimony in 2 Nephi 4.15-16 (Book of Mormon): “And upon these I write the things of my soul, and many of the scriptures which are engraven upon the plates of brass. For my soul delighteth in the scriptures and my heart pondereth them, and writeth them for the learning and the profit of my children.
“Behold, my soul deligteth in the things of the Lord; and my heart pondereth continually upon the things which I have seen and heard.”
In this column, I’ll write about The Things of My Soul: workings of the Spirit of the Lord in Latter-day Saints’ lives, church ecclesiastical and business operations, church history, full- and part-time missionary activities, temple work, family life, U.S. constitutional government, neighborliness and service, sports, volunteerism, humor and anything else which affects LDS.
Temple Dedication Is Joyous Time
Certainly, last weekend’s dedication of the Oquirrh Mountain Temple (South Jordan, Utah) was long-anticipated and spiritually rousing for many.
Meanwhile, busy President Thomas S. Monson happily ‘directed’ an Aug. 21 impromptu Happy Birthday chorus in the temple’s shadow to honor his 82nd birthday. As he walked away, the maestro flashed a broad smile. The prophet’s inclusionary desires towards others are exemplary.
Besides, you can never have enough dependable music conductors.
Preparation for this historic temple dedication was extensive, including church volunteers dusting furniture for long, late hours virtually every night during the open house.
To me, the solemnity felt in both the Oquirrh Mountain and Draper temples before dedication was vast. I was grateful to attend last Sunday morning’s dedicatory session and gladly anticipate doing temple work there.
This all underscores the importance of keeping temple covenants. The spiritual power in obedience to Heavenly Father’s commandments is real, comforting and everlasting.
For example, on Aug. 18, 1909, my maternal grandparents were eternally sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. On Aug., 18, 2009, my extended family celebrated the 100th anniversary of this union that has done much good. I love my grandparents. They raised their children, including my own sweet mother, “in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” (Enos 1:1)
She and my dad did the same for my siblings and me. My blessings from the Lord are as numberless as the sands upon the seashore. These are The Things of My Soul.
So, I’m interested in how LDS use their collective influence to positively influence others. That’s why I ‘invented’ LDT.
I hope you’ll join with me. It will be fun and maybe even wild and woolly.
Witness of Savior of the World
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
We Testify of Our Beloved Savior Jesus Christ
I have a testimony of Elder Dallin H. Oaks’ May 9, 2009, testimony of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Elder Oaks privately testified of our Savior’s Atonement to the four-stake, nearly-200 cast, choir and crew of Savior of the World after its last production in the Bountiful Regional Center. He also told us we would remember our participation in this sacred event forever.
In the production, I portrayed the angel who appeared to the shepherds near Bethlehem prior to Christ’s birth.
Since Elder Oaks bore his testimony in May, I’ve continued to feel its power from our Beloved Savior through His Spirit. I look forward every day to further developing my testimony of Heavenly Father through His Beloved Son Jesus Christ.
To paraphrase the words of the song Were You There on That Christmas Night?: “Were you there were you there as our witness of the Father and Son; grew, developed and expanded into one; of the power He gave us to testify of our Savior of the World?”
When Elder Oaks testified of our Lord and Savior his voice broke with emotion, of which he quickly regained control. Rarely have I heard an apostle’s voice break, but it may have been due to the intimate setting of our relatively small number. It was such a sweet outpouring of the Gift of the Holy Ghost.
When I saw the apostle conversing with chorus members Sharlon, Katie and Lukas Harding (Salt Lake Riverside Stake) and cast member Dave Kelly (died in June 2009), it reminded me of the countless times our Redeemer selflessly ministered to the House of Israel. All meeting with Elder Oaks that night were witnesses to what our Savior may have done had He been there. It was a profoundly solemn moment I hope to never forget.
It was ‘spiritually electric’ watching my comrades greet and converse with Elder Oaks. Their countenances were changed as they sought to communicate with this humble servant of our Heavenly Father. They looked him in the eye with great respect and he returned their gaze with a humble smile. He was listening to their words and their hearts.
I told Elder Oaks personally of my appreciation for his gratitude of our testimonies. He vigorously shook my hand and thanked me. How I wanted time to express to him my love of our Savior and His wonderful work! But others were waiting to greet him. I’ll get my chance.
We Cast Our Lot with the Fisher of Men
During Savior’s fishing scene, the apostles couldn’t reel in the net because there weren’t enough of them. Likewise, there aren’t enough of us doing missionary, fellowshipping and temple work. We all obviously need to do more, trite as it sounds.
Church leaders throughout the four-stake area suggested LDS invite friends and others to attend the production. I invited five neighbors (two inactives and three of other beliefs) to attend a performance. One lady of another faith said she would bring a family member and a friend, but her chronically poor health stopped it.
Savior of the World is still a great missionary tool, even with obstructions. I learned that by following the Spirit, I would know who would be receptive to an invitation, how to approach them in a friendly and conversational manner and not worry about what they might say. The Savior commands us to continuously invite others to come unto Him.
By following inspired leaders, we’ll always choose the right. The apostles cast the net on the right, or correct side of the ship as our Savior taught them. Again, He commands us to cast with Him, which will always be to our eternal benefit. He continues to lovingly remind His obedient children, “As thy days may demand, so thy succor shall be.” (How Firm a Foundation, Hymns, # 85)
What a precious experience it was to participate in Savior and to continue feasting off its wonderful Spirit. We should cast with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Trusting Him enables me to bear up my post-2007 kidney transplant era very well. Participation with the sweet Savior production and its cast and chorus would probably not have been possible without my transplant, because of the required thrice-weekly dialysis treatments.
Savior of the World has definitely changed my life and hopefully forever. It continues as a wonderfully amazing experience for me, because of the continually renewing power of the Atonement, which offers the Gift of the Holy Ghost. Without my oldest sister Irene Jeppsen’s (Afton Wyoming Stake) kidney, I may have never had either life-changing experience. Both persistently lead me to more light and knowledge from Heavenly Father.
Part of those revelations included learning how to sacrifice my time for four months of play practice. The last two weeks for me each required over 20 hours, while others sacrificed much more for a lot longer.
During this very busy time, I realized again that sacrificing for truth regardless of cost is what’s important. That’s why so many of us performers—including mothers with young children—were willing to endure inconvenient schedules for a few days to learn of the blessings of sacrifice.
The Sweetness of the Spirit
The Savior of the World’s personnel normally put in four or five hours weekly, so the bump in hours at the end was trying. It took a lot of time, but more than I still miss it. This was a very uplifting and once-in-a-lifetime experience for me, because of its tremendous spiritual impact on my life.
Director Colleen McKnight (Salt Lake Pioneer Stake) said the theme Come, Lord Jesus Come means we should continually ask our Savior to come into our lives. We should already be preparing and seeking for Him to come again soon, which is profound.
During rehearsals I often felt the Spirit very strong for several minutes, which allowed me to recognize and revel in it. After the edge subsided, I always looked forward to its return. Of course, the Spirit overcomes all negative feelings from the heart and fills it with charity.
There are many words of wisdom in Savior of the World, but some of the most telling are when Joseph and wife Mary (mother of our Savior) discussed their trials. Mary testifies: “All flesh is in His hands.” Joseph retorts, “But does He have to grip so tightly?”
The Alleluia chorus by the women of the cast is absolutely and profoundly beautiful. It packs spiritual power and majesty. The exhilaration from hearing it I cannot even begin to describe. It’s a reminder of music you might hear in a 1000-year old European cathedral, i.e., the Sound of Music.
But this was done in a 40-something LDS regional conference center, fully accompanied by those who actively cultivate the Gift of the Holy Ghost in their lives.
Savior’s music is very, very uplifting and a pleasure to sing. The recurrent Come, Lord Jesus, Come, theme applies to us all whether approaching spiritually or physically wounded, or whoever needs Him. There is a lot of spiritual power and lessons contained in these hymns. This experience has become a forever life-changer for me.
Gordon Hinckley Times Three
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Triple Your Fun
The name Gordon Hinckley appears on your caller ID. What do you do? What will you say?
Maybe you wonder if the 15th president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who died in 2008, has already been resurrected. Looks like you’re last on the gossip grapevine again. Either that or you’re nuts.
That’s what some formerly said about two other Gordon Hinckleys, who are both LDS. Gordon K. Hinckley lives in the Taylorsville Utah Stake, while the St. Anthony Idaho Stake is home to Gordon D. Hinckley.
For years, they lived in the ever-lengthening shadow of Gordon B. Hinckley. Though the late prophet was relatively small in stature, he was a giant in making friends for his international church. He was revered as the prophet, seer and revelator of God on earth.
With such a famous and honored name among LDS worldwide, there were bound to be hundreds of inquiring minds who mistakenly attempted to contact the ‘lesser-known’ Gordon Hinckleys. Despite many calls, Gordon K. said he averaged one call for each semi-annual LDS General Conference during President Hinckley’s tenure (1995-2008).
Most callers sought information, while others panicked, were probably caught off-guard and flustered.
Their confusion turned to skepticism and maybe agitation. Then the name-calling started. They called him Mickey Mouse, said Gordon K., 61. “I just tell them who I really am,” which disappointed some.
Gordon D., too, knows of panic attacks when his name appears on caller ID. But callers shouldn’t fear him, he said. “Sometimes I wished I would have gone by (his middle name) Dale.”
Since President Hinckley’s death, communication about him for the other Gordon Hinckleys has virtually stopped. But it’s not dead and buried, so to speak.
When he was introduced after the prophet’s demise, Gordon K. said surprised people “looked at me funny (and said): ‘I thought you died.’”
Gordon K. says business colleagues formerly called him president in reference to Gordon B. Hinckley, but stopped apparently out of respect for the late prophet. When he’s introduced, there’s awe about his name, meeting him and shaking his hand.
Gordon D., 42, said cousins needled him about the namesake prophet “giving me a raise. They were teasing me about a name to live up to.” He said his wife’s grandfather enjoyed introducing him “to get a chuckle at my name” before the church president died.
While the phone calls and mail have stopped for Gordon K., Gordon D. says few ask him about his famous name. But they each still answer questions about their long-distance blood relation.
Gordon K., who met the prophet twice, said the second time “I could see the ‘wheels turning’” in President Hinckley’s head about how they’re related. He asked Gordon K. to find out and write back, but President Hinckley actually solved the puzzle.
Neither of them knows Gordon D. They’re all related through the first Ira Nathaniel Hinckley, who is grandfather of the late prophet, great-great grandfather of Gordon K. and great-great uncle of Gordon D.
While three Gordon Hinckleys may be amazing, Gordon D. said he learned from then-apostle Gordon B. Hinckley three decades ago that Ira Nathaniel Hinckley has six descendent-namesakes.
A Name to Live Up To—and Demand
Even the moniker ‘President Hinckley’ is shared. Gordon K. served as elders quorum president, while Gordon D. was president of his teachers quorum. Apparently, it’s hard having the same name as someone well-known. People tend not to believe you. After all, namesakes are rare. In this case, lightning struck twice in the same church.
“It’s coincidental my parents named me Gordon, because they weren’t active in the church,” said Gordon K. “I don’t know that they ever realized the impact it’s had on my life.”
Gordon K. has been pleased since he was a teen to learn his renowned namesake, then an apostle, was featured on a church manual cover. “But I’m my own person and different. He was a good role model.”
Gordon D., who was named for his mother’s friend, accepts references to the 15th prophet as a compliment. One friend formerly listed him on his cell phone directory as “’the prophet’, which didn’t bother him.
Sometimes others do. In 1985, while attending Ricks College (now BYU-Idaho) Gordon D. introduced himself to his dorm mother. Her answer surprised him, as she retorted, “’If your name is Gordon Hinckley, my name is Camilla Kimball.’ I had to show her my driver’s license” to prove it, he said.
When people learn who Gordon K. is, he said they remember his name. “Friends say, ‘You’ll never guess who I had lunch with today.’ I have some good times with it.” Those friends probably don’t say the man they lunched with is 6-4, compared to the man they didn’t, whom Gordon K. says was 5-8.
The surviving Gordon Hinckleys don’t have all the fun. Richard L. Hinckley of the Salt Lake Riverside Stake said his name was once mistaken for now-First Quorum of the Seventy member Richard G. Hinckley, after the latter’s mother died.
When a woman called a surprised Richard L. to offer condolences about his mother, he said, “I just talked to her!” Ira Nathaniel Hinckley is his great-great-great uncle.
In the bad old days when Gordon K. was inundated with phone calls for the prophet, many were senseless, soliciting, or underhanded. One woman left three phone messages and added to her story each time, he said. She claimed the church wronged her in some way, owing her $1 million—and later upped the ante to $1 billion.
After Hurricane Katrina, a caller wanted to know if the prophet realized help was needed immediately. “They called like (President Hinckley) wouldn’t have thought of this,” said Gordon K.
A celebrity once called Gordon K., whom he refused to identify. “A well-known radio personality” said President Hinckley was on the cover of Time magazine. The caller asked him to sign the magazine, which would be sold and the proceeds donated to charity.
Gordon K. said even though his signature is unlike the late prophet’s, the solicitor was still “dishonest, but I wouldn’t want to disgrace who it was.” He sadly observed that the forged signature of Gordon B. Hinckley could have been sold on eBay.
Football Begat Friendship
Coach Urban Meyer Remembers
Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin
by LDT Religion of Sports Staff
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Urban Meyer, current University of Florida football coach formerly at the University of Utah, wrote these feelings in 2009 after the death last year of his friend, apostle Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:
My discussions with Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin were many and covered lessons learned playing football that carried over to life. The simplicity and meaning of what he said made it so remarkably easy to learn and to remember. I found his ability to communicate was extraordinary.
A story that I remember was when he was tackled just short of a touchdown. Under a pile of players, Elder Wirthlin could have easily moved the ball and been a hero for scoring a touchdown. Instead he remembered the words of his mother. Doing the right thing was far more important than being a hero. Do what is right and deal with the consequences.
Elder Wirthlin also conveyed that he played a number of different positions on the football field. He believed that contributing to the team was far more important than his personal preferences. That carried over into his work life and in his commitment to serve the Lord. There was nothing that he would not do.
His commitment to Sister Wirthlin and his family was without end. Their devotion to each other and their children was simple, humble and beautiful. It serves as a great example of family to all of us.
Courtesy of: Steve McClain, University of Florida Athletic Association Communications Department Associate Athletic Director
Elder Wirthlin, who died in December at 91, was the “quintessential Ute football aficionado”. This writer declared such last spring in The Forever Fan, published by the University of Utah alumni magazine Continuum. The apostle was not only was a star Ute halfback (1936-38), but followed the Utes up to his death.
When Meyer and Elder Wirthlin met, they seemed to develop an instant friendship. The coach liked the idea that a high-ranking church leader played football for the Utes. Because of Meyer’s respect for him and the church, the apostle was invited into the Utah football family’s ‘inner sanctum’.
Elder Wirthlin spoke to the team about his love not only for UofU football, but honesty, work ethic and teamwork. He offered prayers at team dinners and personally encouraged players at practices. His friendship with Meyer grew to include LDS and then-assistant (now head) coach Kyle Whittingham, and a unique position as something of a spiritual leader.
At Elder Wirthlin’s Dec. 5, 2008 funeral, church President Thomas S. Monson said of his long-time friend, “In recent years he was something of a self-appointed chaplain to the U team” wrote Continuum.” He was respected by coaches, players and fans alike.”
Meyer and the church leader liked to quiz each other about religion and football, respectively. They exchanged ideas about what each cared about most, said the apostle’s son, Joseph Wirthlin, Jr.
According to UofU Crimson Club chair Blake Strong (Salt Lake Bonneville Stake), the last five to seven years of Elder Wirthlin’s life brought him to a previously-uncharted depth and excitement of Ute football, its fans, past history and possible future.
Sisters are for Loving
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Sisters are for lots of things. They feed you, love you, invite you to do stuff and can be your best friends. When they suffer greatly for your health, it’s obvious they like you.
Ya’ think?
I have three older sisters—three of the greatest women I have ever known. Not only have they been good examples, but they have agonized for and suffered with and me.
July 10, 2009, was the second anniversary of my miracle kidney transplant. My oldest sister Irene Jeppsen’s (Afton Wyoming Stake) left kidney became my right kidney. She literally sacrificed her health for me, for which I’ll be eternally grateful. Her recovery was rough, similar to many organ donors.
She even had a bout with food poisoning during recovery, but recovered after several days. She has great resolve and continues to be in good health. Even her spectacularly good kidney function appears to be as good as ever.
Knock on wood, folks.
Once she committed to be my donor, there was no second-guessing for her. She appeared to never waver, but like virtually all humans in great trial, there must have been some trepidation. Surely, she was strengthened by that same God who reinvigorated His Beloved Son Jesus Christ in completing the wondrous Atonement.
I’m grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who answers prayers.
Because of my sister’s bravery, my kidney function continues to be the best it’s been since the late 1990s. I’m down to 13 daily kidney rejection pills from where I started almost two years ago at 30.
I love to wear the Recycle Life T-shirt given me by LDS Hospital transplant office personnel, because it reminds me of my miracle—a caring sister following the prompting of her Gift of the Holy Ghost to give me the highest quality of life possible.
My ‘recycled’ life is very good to me.
Each of my sisters—my heroes—committed to donate a kidney to me. This continues to be very comforting, because organ donation can be extremely difficult, physically and spiritually. Donors can take up to six weeks to recover and kidney failure is obviously greater for those with only one kidney.
My great sister’s kidney has given me back my life. When I thanked her, she gave a timeless reply: “Glad I could do it.” She exemplifies the satisfaction that opportunities to show kindness should be more than enough compensation for helping someone.
While kidney recipients usually feel better after surgery, donors tend to have a physical letdown. My sister was up-and-down after her operation with bouts of nausea and dizziness. She wasn’t able to leave the hospital when anticipated, which frustrated her.
Even with these trials, she still visited me several times in my hospital room. It appeared she definitely cared more about my health than hers. Her inner strength in the face of discomfort and pain is inspiring.
I want to show her the zeal of gratitude she deserves in the days and years to come.
My sister’s concern for me in the face of her tribulations shows the type of character she has. Like our Beloved Savior Jesus Christ, she was forgetting herself again in the service of others. What a great lesson this is to me.
Joy-riding the Memories of Life
by LDT That’s Life! Staff
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Loving the Joy-Riding Life
Keith Romney (Salt Lake Bonneville Stake) knows joy-riding should be fun.
Since 1979, Romney, 80, of Salt Lake says he’s given about 1,500 ‘grandpa rides’ for meals and entertainment to his children, grandchildren and youth football players also calling him grandpa.
Joy-riding through his 30th anniversary year, the wheelchair-bound Romney’s muscular dystrophy causing progressive muscle groups to short-circuit, prevents any use of his legs.
But he has no regrets. Cruising and coaching football sweeten his many fond memories of teaching youth about neighborliness and work ethic. He loves it.
Cruising “is more meaningful than even football” he says fondly, adding documentation continues of ongoing joy-riding activities.
His wife, Janet, commends him for being “an amazing individual (who) can handle anything,” maybe because “He never, ever forgot his family.” Perhaps it’s helped him relate well to all children.
Romney said he averaged a record 17 children in his suburban per 1990 weekly grandpa ride. He laughs about spurring competition between sexes by offering cash to whoever first gained attention of streetwalkers.
As a Little League football coach, Romney’s coaching ability was no joke. He had successful and unusual stints spanning 1970-74 and 1996-97 enabling him to coach his son and grandsons.
His incredible 153-12 record featured the 96-97 back-to-back national champions, while four Ute Conference league titles were won in his first tenure. Romney so indelibly loved his second-generation players that he moved up with them each year to the next age level. He was like their surrogate grandfather.
He claimed to be the league’s oldest coach when he began his second career at 67. Ultimately his influence extends far beyond the goalposts and locker rooms, to attending players’ high school games and graduation.
Recognition for the first national championship came to Romney from then-Utah Gov. Mike Leavitt and since-retired BYU coaching legend LaVell Edwards. They praised the team for its example and off-field potential.
Romney’s last coaching tenure included weathering muscular dystrophy‘s drop-toe effect, which inhibits the use of extremity muscles. No wonder he says, “I looked kind of strange walking.” If he hit his toe for any reason, he’d fall.
He fell 239 times, according to his entries in his little black book. He remembers falling flat on his face and within an inch of hitting his head. Romney said another fall could have broken his neck.
Never mind the broken bones, but no such luck with the unknown damaged pairs of glasses and the bruise and bloodied face. He seems to deal well with the inconvenience.
At least one person who witnessed his frequently hard falls wondered what happened.
He draws strength from his father Vernon Romney, who contracted polio at two and used crutches his remaining 77 years. “He was one of the greatest men I’ve ever known” with his drive to succeed.
When age and advancing MD forced Keith Romney to retire from football, several players wanted to quit for flimsy reasons. But they didn’t, thanks to the example their mentor learned from his father.
Making Possible Probable
Interestingly, the 1997 team included two girls among four races. Twenty of 22 players were Tongans, for the most of one race in Romney’s coaching history, he said.
While Romney endured falls, legally blind assistant Ron Miya was partially paralyzed by a stroke and both used canes. “It was like a play or movie,” Romney said, laughing. “We weren’t going to intimidate anybody. We were the walking wounded.”
When he fell at the 1997 national championship, players helped him up as they always did. “The opposing team couldn’t believe their eyes. It was funny.” But that’s not all.
As Miya, assistant head coach Paulina Afu, Romney and the female players led the seemingly uninspiring team onto the field, “People said it was the most bizarre thing they’d ever seen,” he said.
It seemed to Romney that onlookers hardly even noticed the team’s 20 male players.
Meanwhile, players’ parents “took in stride such a bizarre-looking coach and a woman assistant,” Romney explained. Still, people winced when the team took the field.
But Romney’s Goats won the national championship 12-7. After its 45-12 semi-finals rout, the opposing coach said “Our team had the best sportsmanship of any team on any level he’d ever seen,” claimed Romney.
He once the Goats’ “religion” of good conduct meant more to him and his players than their record.
Romney team nickname of Goats—G for Good and S for Sports—is because he wanted players who were good sports. Miya wrote a cheer which the East Side football team repeated at practice: “We are East and we have pride, our fame is known from far and wide, hard and fair is how we play, good sports aren’t just words we say.”
Two of the coach’s favorite practice drills made for tough, physical and motivated teams who respected their opponents.
Consequently, player toughness resulted in the development of current Cincinnati Bengals blocking back hopeful and former BYU standout fullback Taufui Vakapuna. “We named a tackle, the Taufui Hit, after him,” the coach said. “He hit so hard, you could hear it all over the stadium.”
Some players wore several extra pads to prepare, Romney remembers, but still hurt for a week. ”Fui liked to hit people. He was so fast and shifty and had good moves.”
Give Romney an assist for Vakapuna’s recently-signed four-year contract with the NFL’s Cincinnati Bengals. The player was unavailable for comment.
Former player Paea Afu remembers Romney as a “hard guy at first” who became “an awesome coach, one of the best I ever had. He treated us as grown-up boys” because he respected them.
Romney gratefully remembers Vakapuna praised him as his best coach ever.
Miya said Romney’s charitable treatment of players made him “generous to a fault,” but charity paid off both in football and church. As the former bishop of the LDS Garden Park 2nd Ward, Romney says seven of 14 teenage priests were on marijuana in 1972, but 12 ultimately served church missions.
“Being bishop and a youth football coach (simultaneously) tied it all together” with counseling and friendship, said Miya. Romney “loves dealing with young people. He doesn’t know about the x’s and o’s of football, but does about young people and how to motivate them.”
The bishop-coach says his talents and abilities were used interchangeably. He admits once skipping Sunday School to attend a classic car competition and allowing an afore-mentioned priest-turning-missionary to drive. Romney said his faith and trust in the boy influenced him to serve.
Some may wonder why a bishop would assist youth in disregarding Sunday School. “It’s easier to repent than ask permission,” he quips in rephrasing a similarly humorous quote on forgiveness.
Now Romney’s grateful years later to observe the former youth and “the influence we had on their lives.”
Two are brothers—his grandsons—and were on Romney’s same football team.
When the younger brother was “clobbered" during a game, according to Romney, his sibling “picked him up tenderly. It was heartwarming for me and the rest of the team.”
Top 10 Cougars Enjoying Pre-season Ride
and Why I’m an 85 Percent Prognosticator
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
10 – Observations Before and After Games: BYU beat Oklahoma 31-6 the only other time (1994) the teams played. Shouldn’t the Sooners and Tulane Green Wave (split two games with BYU) finish second to the Cougars again, sooner rather than later?
I’m right: Yesss! Sooner than virtually all Sooner fans could ever imagine, while Tulane was Tu-thless in its Sept. 12 debilitating loss.
9 – B & A: In the alphabet, ‘B’ is before ‘O’ and ‘T’, so BYU and its wins come before Oklahoma and Tulane.
I’m right: Even the alphabet agrees with me!
8 – B & A: Provo is further north than Norman, Okla. (home of the Sooners) and New Orleans (Green Wave’s campus), La. The further north you are, the closer you are to the North Pole and Santa Claus. More toys. More candy. More happiness. More wins.
I’m right: Living further north is more profitable.
7 – B & A: With a BYU win over Sooner Nation in Dallas, it would set the stage for a Utah football team sweep in Cowboys Stadium. Bingham High (South Jordan, Utah) will play national power Trinity High (Euless, Tex.) there on Mon., Sept. 7.
Didn’t happen! Trinity whipped the Miners by 42-21.
6 – B & A: The first-ever college football game in the Dallas Cowboys’ stadium just as well be won by the Cougars. It’s long overdue for underdog BYU to beat an Associated Press-ranked, non-conference foe.
I’m right: BYU ended its endless drought, maybe ‘Homa’s BCS hopes, and created its own team of destiny.
5 – B & A: Since a 26-6 win over Arizona State in 1998, the Cougars have lost 12 consecutive non-conference games to AP Top 25 teams. BYU’s 13th try for a win over a ranked team is its lucky number.
I’m right: ‘Unlucky’ number 13 has its day, at least for a day.
4 – B & A: It’s Texas native and wide receiver McKay Jacobsen’s homecoming-of-sorts, because he grew up near the stadium. Shouldn’t the local boy make good?
I’m right: Jacobsen caught the winning TD pass. What can I say?
3 – B & A: Ty Detmer, my favorite BYU player of all time, is also from Texas. Maybe his spirit will carry the Cougars to victory, like it did when he was the Cougars’ quarterback.
I’m vaguely right: No doubt he was doing his best to help the Cougars.
2 – B & A: My father-in-law’s TV will undoubtedly be on its best behavior, giving BYU an increased edge to edge the renowned Sooners.
I’m right: Never has a TV served so diligently with so much humility.
1 – B & A: Because I’m a BYU fan! Well, duh!
I’m right: For 34 years and counting!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
The Things of My Soul
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Welcome to Our Latter-day Newspaper Blog
Welcome to the independently-owned and operated Latter-day Times Newspapers, located in Salt Lake City, Utah. It is patterned after the old Latter-day Sentinel, which was published out of Oregon and later Arizona.
We’re literally sharing our copyright and only agenda: the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It’s our staff’s ideal, which is why we faithfully endorse the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, its doctrine, policies and leadership.
Besides The Things of My Soul, today’s other scroll-down features are: Witness of Savior of the World, Gordon Hinckley Times Three, Football Begat Friendship, Sisters are for Loving. and Joy-riding the Memories of Life.
Our format will soon change to a more reader-friendly design. In the meantime, please bear with us.
I’ll deliver this first-ever LDT editor’s column every month. You will also receive timely news and other information. We’ll deliver, even if you disagree with us. Aren’t you the lucky one?
So tell us what you think. Hammer us, chide us, feed us dinner, whatever. Just tell us what’s on your mind and in your heart. Your story or other newspaper ideas are also welcome. Write: editor@latter-daytimes.com.
The column’s name, of course, is taken from the prophet Nephi’s testimony in 2 Nephi 4.15-16 (Book of Mormon): “And upon these I write the things of my soul, and many of the scriptures which are engraven upon the plates of brass. For my soul delighteth in the scriptures and my heart pondereth them, and writeth them for the learning and the profit of my children.
“Behold, my soul deligteth in the things of the Lord; and my heart pondereth continually upon the things which I have seen and heard.”
In this column, I’ll write about The Things of My Soul: workings of the Spirit of the Lord in Latter-day Saints’ lives, church ecclesiastical and business operations, church history, full- and part-time missionary activities, temple work, family life, U.S. constitutional government, neighborliness and service, sports, volunteerism, humor and anything else which affects LDS.
Temple Dedication Is Joyous Time
Certainly, last weekend’s dedication of the Oquirrh Mountain Temple (South Jordan, Utah) was long-anticipated and spiritually rousing for many.
Meanwhile, busy President Thomas S. Monson happily ‘directed’ an Aug. 21 impromptu Happy Birthday chorus in the temple’s shadow to honor his 82nd birthday. As he walked away, the maestro flashed a broad smile. The prophet’s inclusionary desires towards others are exemplary.
Besides, you can never have enough dependable music conductors.
Preparation for this historic temple dedication was extensive, including church volunteers dusting furniture for long, late hours virtually every night during the open house.
To me, the solemnity felt in both the Oquirrh Mountain and Draper temples before dedication was vast. I was grateful to attend last Sunday morning’s dedicatory session and gladly anticipate doing temple work there.
This all underscores the importance of keeping temple covenants. The spiritual power in obedience to Heavenly Father’s commandments is real, comforting and everlasting.
For example, on Aug. 18, 1909, my maternal grandparents were eternally sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. On Aug., 18, 2009, my extended family celebrated the 100th anniversary of this union that has done much good. I love my grandparents. They raised their children, including my own sweet mother, “in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” (Enos 1:1)
She and my dad did the same for my siblings and me. My blessings from the Lord are as numberless as the sands upon the seashore. These are The Things of My Soul.
So, I’m interested in how LDS use their collective influence to positively influence others. That’s why I ‘invented’ LDT.
I hope you’ll join with me. It will be fun and maybe even wild and woolly.
Witness of Savior of the World
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
We Testify of Our Beloved Savior Jesus Christ
I have a testimony of Elder Dallin H. Oaks’ May 9, 2009, testimony of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Elder Oaks privately testified of our Savior’s Atonement to the four-stake, nearly-200 cast, choir and crew of Savior of the World after its last production in the Bountiful Regional Center. He also told us we would remember our participation in this sacred event forever.
In the production, I portrayed the angel who appeared to the shepherds near Bethlehem prior to Christ’s birth.
Since Elder Oaks bore his testimony in May, I’ve continued to feel its power from our Beloved Savior through His Spirit. I look forward every day to further developing my testimony of Heavenly Father through His Beloved Son Jesus Christ.
To paraphrase the words of the song Were You There on That Christmas Night?: “Were you there were you there as our witness of the Father and Son; grew, developed and expanded into one; of the power He gave us to testify of our Savior of the World?”
When Elder Oaks testified of our Lord and Savior his voice broke with emotion, of which he quickly regained control. Rarely have I heard an apostle’s voice break, but it may have been due to the intimate setting of our relatively small number. It was such a sweet outpouring of the Gift of the Holy Ghost.
When I saw the apostle conversing with chorus members Sharlon, Katie and Lukas Harding (Salt Lake Riverside Stake) and cast member Dave Kelly (died in June 2009), it reminded me of the countless times our Redeemer selflessly ministered to the House of Israel. All meeting with Elder Oaks that night were witnesses to what our Savior may have done had He been there. It was a profoundly solemn moment I hope to never forget.
It was ‘spiritually electric’ watching my comrades greet and converse with Elder Oaks. Their countenances were changed as they sought to communicate with this humble servant of our Heavenly Father. They looked him in the eye with great respect and he returned their gaze with a humble smile. He was listening to their words and their hearts.
I told Elder Oaks personally of my appreciation for his gratitude of our testimonies. He vigorously shook my hand and thanked me. How I wanted time to express to him my love of our Savior and His wonderful work! But others were waiting to greet him. I’ll get my chance.
We Cast Our Lot with the Fisher of Men
During Savior’s fishing scene, the apostles couldn’t reel in the net because there weren’t enough of them. Likewise, there aren’t enough of us doing missionary, fellowshipping and temple work. We all obviously need to do more, trite as it sounds.
Church leaders throughout the four-stake area suggested LDS invite friends and others to attend the production. I invited five neighbors (two inactives and three of other beliefs) to attend a performance. One lady of another faith said she would bring a family member and a friend, but her chronically poor health stopped it.
Savior of the World is still a great missionary tool, even with obstructions. I learned that by following the Spirit, I would know who would be receptive to an invitation, how to approach them in a friendly and conversational manner and not worry about what they might say. The Savior commands us to continuously invite others to come unto Him.
By following inspired leaders, we’ll always choose the right. The apostles cast the net on the right, or correct side of the ship as our Savior taught them. Again, He commands us to cast with Him, which will always be to our eternal benefit. He continues to lovingly remind His obedient children, “As thy days may demand, so thy succor shall be.” (How Firm a Foundation, Hymns, # 85)
What a precious experience it was to participate in Savior and to continue feasting off its wonderful Spirit. We should cast with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Trusting Him enables me to bear up my post-2007 kidney transplant era very well. Participation with the sweet Savior production and its cast and chorus would probably not have been possible without my transplant, because of the required thrice-weekly dialysis treatments.
Savior of the World has definitely changed my life and hopefully forever. It continues as a wonderfully amazing experience for me, because of the continually renewing power of the Atonement, which offers the Gift of the Holy Ghost. Without my oldest sister Irene Jeppsen’s (Afton Wyoming Stake) kidney, I may have never had either life-changing experience. Both persistently lead me to more light and knowledge from Heavenly Father.
Part of those revelations included learning how to sacrifice my time for four months of play practice. The last two weeks for me each required over 20 hours, while others sacrificed much more for a lot longer.
During this very busy time, I realized again that sacrificing for truth regardless of cost is what’s important. That’s why so many of us performers—including mothers with young children—were willing to endure inconvenient schedules for a few days to learn of the blessings of sacrifice.
The Sweetness of the Spirit
The Savior of the World’s personnel normally put in four or five hours weekly, so the bump in hours at the end was trying. It took a lot of time, but more than I still miss it. This was a very uplifting and once-in-a-lifetime experience for me, because of its tremendous spiritual impact on my life.
Director Colleen McKnight (Salt Lake Pioneer Stake) said the theme Come, Lord Jesus Come means we should continually ask our Savior to come into our lives. We should already be preparing and seeking for Him to come again soon, which is profound.
During rehearsals I often felt the Spirit very strong for several minutes, which allowed me to recognize and revel in it. After the edge subsided, I always looked forward to its return. Of course, the Spirit overcomes all negative feelings from the heart and fills it with charity.
There are many words of wisdom in Savior of the World, but some of the most telling are when Joseph and wife Mary (mother of our Savior) discussed their trials. Mary testifies: “All flesh is in His hands.” Joseph retorts, “But does He have to grip so tightly?”
The Alleluia chorus by the women of the cast is absolutely and profoundly beautiful. It packs spiritual power and majesty. The exhilaration from hearing it I cannot even begin to describe. It’s a reminder of music you might hear in a 1000-year old European cathedral, i.e., the Sound of Music.
But this was done in a 40-something LDS regional conference center, fully accompanied by those who actively cultivate the Gift of the Holy Ghost in their lives.
Savior’s music is very, very uplifting and a pleasure to sing. The recurrent Come, Lord Jesus, Come, theme applies to us all whether approaching spiritually or physically wounded, or whoever needs Him. There is a lot of spiritual power and lessons contained in these hymns. This experience has become a forever life-changer for me.
Gordon Hinckley Times Three
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Triple Your Fun
The name Gordon Hinckley appears on your caller ID. What do you do? What will you say?
Maybe you wonder if the 15th president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who died in 2008, has already been resurrected. Looks like you’re last on the gossip grapevine again. Either that or you’re nuts.
That’s what some formerly said about two other Gordon Hinckleys, who are both LDS. Gordon K. Hinckley lives in the Taylorsville Utah Stake, while the St. Anthony Idaho Stake is home to Gordon D. Hinckley.
For years, they lived in the ever-lengthening shadow of Gordon B. Hinckley. Though the late prophet was relatively small in stature, he was a giant in making friends for his international church. He was revered as the prophet, seer and revelator of God on earth.
With such a famous and honored name among LDS worldwide, there were bound to be hundreds of inquiring minds who mistakenly attempted to contact the ‘lesser-known’ Gordon Hinckleys. Despite many calls, Gordon K. said he averaged one call for each semi-annual LDS General Conference during President Hinckley’s tenure (1995-2008).
Most callers sought information, while others panicked, were probably caught off-guard and flustered.
Their confusion turned to skepticism and maybe agitation. Then the name-calling started. They called him Mickey Mouse, said Gordon K., 61. “I just tell them who I really am,” which disappointed some.
Gordon D., too, knows of panic attacks when his name appears on caller ID. But callers shouldn’t fear him, he said. “Sometimes I wished I would have gone by (his middle name) Dale.”
Since President Hinckley’s death, communication about him for the other Gordon Hinckleys has virtually stopped. But it’s not dead and buried, so to speak.
When he was introduced after the prophet’s demise, Gordon K. said surprised people “looked at me funny (and said): ‘I thought you died.’”
Gordon K. says business colleagues formerly called him president in reference to Gordon B. Hinckley, but stopped apparently out of respect for the late prophet. When he’s introduced, there’s awe about his name, meeting him and shaking his hand.
Gordon D., 42, said cousins needled him about the namesake prophet “giving me a raise. They were teasing me about a name to live up to.” He said his wife’s grandfather enjoyed introducing him “to get a chuckle at my name” before the church president died.
While the phone calls and mail have stopped for Gordon K., Gordon D. says few ask him about his famous name. But they each still answer questions about their long-distance blood relation.
Gordon K., who met the prophet twice, said the second time “I could see the ‘wheels turning’” in President Hinckley’s head about how they’re related. He asked Gordon K. to find out and write back, but President Hinckley actually solved the puzzle.
Neither of them knows Gordon D. They’re all related through the first Ira Nathaniel Hinckley, who is grandfather of the late prophet, great-great grandfather of Gordon K. and great-great uncle of Gordon D.
While three Gordon Hinckleys may be amazing, Gordon D. said he learned from then-apostle Gordon B. Hinckley three decades ago that Ira Nathaniel Hinckley has six descendent-namesakes.
A Name to Live Up To—and Demand
Even the moniker ‘President Hinckley’ is shared. Gordon K. served as elders quorum president, while Gordon D. was president of his teachers quorum. Apparently, it’s hard having the same name as someone well-known. People tend not to believe you. After all, namesakes are rare. In this case, lightning struck twice in the same church.
“It’s coincidental my parents named me Gordon, because they weren’t active in the church,” said Gordon K. “I don’t know that they ever realized the impact it’s had on my life.”
Gordon K. has been pleased since he was a teen to learn his renowned namesake, then an apostle, was featured on a church manual cover. “But I’m my own person and different. He was a good role model.”
Gordon D., who was named for his mother’s friend, accepts references to the 15th prophet as a compliment. One friend formerly listed him on his cell phone directory as “’the prophet’, which didn’t bother him.
Sometimes others do. In 1985, while attending Ricks College (now BYU-Idaho) Gordon D. introduced himself to his dorm mother. Her answer surprised him, as she retorted, “’If your name is Gordon Hinckley, my name is Camilla Kimball.’ I had to show her my driver’s license” to prove it, he said.
When people learn who Gordon K. is, he said they remember his name. “Friends say, ‘You’ll never guess who I had lunch with today.’ I have some good times with it.” Those friends probably don’t say the man they lunched with is 6-4, compared to the man they didn’t, whom Gordon K. says was 5-8.
The surviving Gordon Hinckleys don’t have all the fun. Richard L. Hinckley of the Salt Lake Riverside Stake said his name was once mistaken for now-First Quorum of the Seventy member Richard G. Hinckley, after the latter’s mother died.
When a woman called a surprised Richard L. to offer condolences about his mother, he said, “I just talked to her!” Ira Nathaniel Hinckley is his great-great-great uncle.
In the bad old days when Gordon K. was inundated with phone calls for the prophet, many were senseless, soliciting, or underhanded. One woman left three phone messages and added to her story each time, he said. She claimed the church wronged her in some way, owing her $1 million—and later upped the ante to $1 billion.
After Hurricane Katrina, a caller wanted to know if the prophet realized help was needed immediately. “They called like (President Hinckley) wouldn’t have thought of this,” said Gordon K.
A celebrity once called Gordon K., whom he refused to identify. “A well-known radio personality” said President Hinckley was on the cover of Time magazine. The caller asked him to sign the magazine, which would be sold and the proceeds donated to charity.
Gordon K. said even though his signature is unlike the late prophet’s, the solicitor was still “dishonest, but I wouldn’t want to disgrace who it was.” He sadly observed that the forged signature of Gordon B. Hinckley could have been sold on eBay.
Football Begat Friendship
Coach Urban Meyer Remembers
Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin
by LDT Religion of Sports Staff
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Urban Meyer, current University of Florida football coach formerly at the University of Utah, wrote these feelings in 2009 after the death last year of his friend, apostle Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:
My discussions with Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin were many and covered lessons learned playing football that carried over to life. The simplicity and meaning of what he said made it so remarkably easy to learn and to remember. I found his ability to communicate was extraordinary.
A story that I remember was when he was tackled just short of a touchdown. Under a pile of players, Elder Wirthlin could have easily moved the ball and been a hero for scoring a touchdown. Instead he remembered the words of his mother. Doing the right thing was far more important than being a hero. Do what is right and deal with the consequences.
Elder Wirthlin also conveyed that he played a number of different positions on the football field. He believed that contributing to the team was far more important than his personal preferences. That carried over into his work life and in his commitment to serve the Lord. There was nothing that he would not do.
His commitment to Sister Wirthlin and his family was without end. Their devotion to each other and their children was simple, humble and beautiful. It serves as a great example of family to all of us.
Courtesy of: Steve McClain, University of Florida Athletic Association Communications Department Associate Athletic Director
Elder Wirthlin, who died in December at 91, was the “quintessential Ute football aficionado”. This writer declared such last spring in The Forever Fan, published by the University of Utah alumni magazine Continuum. The apostle was not only was a star Ute halfback (1936-38), but followed the Utes up to his death.
When Meyer and Elder Wirthlin met, they seemed to develop an instant friendship. The coach liked the idea that a high-ranking church leader played football for the Utes. Because of Meyer’s respect for him and the church, the apostle was invited into the Utah football family’s ‘inner sanctum’.
Elder Wirthlin spoke to the team about his love not only for UofU football, but honesty, work ethic and teamwork. He offered prayers at team dinners and personally encouraged players at practices. His friendship with Meyer grew to include LDS and then-assistant (now head) coach Kyle Whittingham, and a unique position as something of a spiritual leader.
At Elder Wirthlin’s Dec. 5, 2008 funeral, church President Thomas S. Monson said of his long-time friend, “In recent years he was something of a self-appointed chaplain to the U team” wrote Continuum.” He was respected by coaches, players and fans alike.”
Meyer and the church leader liked to quiz each other about religion and football, respectively. They exchanged ideas about what each cared about most, said the apostle’s son, Joseph Wirthlin, Jr.
According to UofU Crimson Club chair Blake Strong (Salt Lake Bonneville Stake), the last five to seven years of Elder Wirthlin’s life brought him to a previously-uncharted depth and excitement of Ute football, its fans, past history and possible future.
Sisters are for Loving
by Dale J. Neilson
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Sisters are for lots of things. They feed you, love you, invite you to do stuff and can be your best friends. When they suffer greatly for your health, it’s obvious they like you.
Ya’ think?
I have three older sisters—three of the greatest women I have ever known. Not only have they been good examples, but they have agonized for and suffered with and me.
July 10, 2009, was the second anniversary of my miracle kidney transplant. My oldest sister Irene Jeppsen’s (Afton Wyoming Stake) left kidney became my right kidney. She literally sacrificed her health for me, for which I’ll be eternally grateful. Her recovery was rough, similar to many organ donors.
She even had a bout with food poisoning during recovery, but recovered after several days. She has great resolve and continues to be in good health. Even her spectacularly good kidney function appears to be as good as ever.
Knock on wood, folks.
Once she committed to be my donor, there was no second-guessing for her. She appeared to never waver, but like virtually all humans in great trial, there must have been some trepidation. Surely, she was strengthened by that same God who reinvigorated His Beloved Son Jesus Christ in completing the wondrous Atonement.
I’m grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who answers prayers.
Because of my sister’s bravery, my kidney function continues to be the best it’s been since the late 1990s. I’m down to 13 daily kidney rejection pills from where I started almost two years ago at 30.
I love to wear the Recycle Life T-shirt given me by LDS Hospital transplant office personnel, because it reminds me of my miracle—a caring sister following the prompting of her Gift of the Holy Ghost to give me the highest quality of life possible.
My ‘recycled’ life is very good to me.
Each of my sisters—my heroes—committed to donate a kidney to me. This continues to be very comforting, because organ donation can be extremely difficult, physically and spiritually. Donors can take up to six weeks to recover and kidney failure is obviously greater for those with only one kidney.
My great sister’s kidney has given me back my life. When I thanked her, she gave a timeless reply: “Glad I could do it.” She exemplifies the satisfaction that opportunities to show kindness should be more than enough compensation for helping someone.
While kidney recipients usually feel better after surgery, donors tend to have a physical letdown. My sister was up-and-down after her operation with bouts of nausea and dizziness. She wasn’t able to leave the hospital when anticipated, which frustrated her.
Even with these trials, she still visited me several times in my hospital room. It appeared she definitely cared more about my health than hers. Her inner strength in the face of discomfort and pain is inspiring.
I want to show her the zeal of gratitude she deserves in the days and years to come.
My sister’s concern for me in the face of her tribulations shows the type of character she has. Like our Beloved Savior Jesus Christ, she was forgetting herself again in the service of others. What a great lesson this is to me.
Joy-riding the Memories of Life
by LDT That’s Life! Staff
© Latter-day Times Newspapers
Loving the Joy-Riding Life
Keith Romney (Salt Lake Bonneville Stake) knows joy-riding should be fun.
Since 1979, Romney, 80, of Salt Lake says he’s given about 1,500 ‘grandpa rides’ for meals and entertainment to his children, grandchildren and youth football players also calling him grandpa.
Joy-riding through his 30th anniversary year, the wheelchair-bound Romney’s muscular dystrophy causing progressive muscle groups to short-circuit, prevents any use of his legs.
But he has no regrets. Cruising and coaching football sweeten his many fond memories of teaching youth about neighborliness and work ethic. He loves it.
Cruising “is more meaningful than even football” he says fondly, adding documentation continues of ongoing joy-riding activities.
His wife, Janet, commends him for being “an amazing individual (who) can handle anything,” maybe because “He never, ever forgot his family.” Perhaps it’s helped him relate well to all children.
Romney said he averaged a record 17 children in his suburban per 1990 weekly grandpa ride. He laughs about spurring competition between sexes by offering cash to whoever first gained attention of streetwalkers.
As a Little League football coach, Romney’s coaching ability was no joke. He had successful and unusual stints spanning 1970-74 and 1996-97 enabling him to coach his son and grandsons.
His incredible 153-12 record featured the 96-97 back-to-back national champions, while four Ute Conference league titles were won in his first tenure. Romney so indelibly loved his second-generation players that he moved up with them each year to the next age level. He was like their surrogate grandfather.
He claimed to be the league’s oldest coach when he began his second career at 67. Ultimately his influence extends far beyond the goalposts and locker rooms, to attending players’ high school games and graduation.
Recognition for the first national championship came to Romney from then-Utah Gov. Mike Leavitt and since-retired BYU coaching legend LaVell Edwards. They praised the team for its example and off-field potential.
Romney’s last coaching tenure included weathering muscular dystrophy‘s drop-toe effect, which inhibits the use of extremity muscles. No wonder he says, “I looked kind of strange walking.” If he hit his toe for any reason, he’d fall.
He fell 239 times, according to his entries in his little black book. He remembers falling flat on his face and within an inch of hitting his head. Romney said another fall could have broken his neck.
Never mind the broken bones, but no such luck with the unknown damaged pairs of glasses and the bruise and bloodied face. He seems to deal well with the inconvenience.
At least one person who witnessed his frequently hard falls wondered what happened.
He draws strength from his father Vernon Romney, who contracted polio at two and used crutches his remaining 77 years. “He was one of the greatest men I’ve ever known” with his drive to succeed.
When age and advancing MD forced Keith Romney to retire from football, several players wanted to quit for flimsy reasons. But they didn’t, thanks to the example their mentor learned from his father.
Making Possible Probable
Interestingly, the 1997 team included two girls among four races. Twenty of 22 players were Tongans, for the most of one race in Romney’s coaching history, he said.
While Romney endured falls, legally blind assistant Ron Miya was partially paralyzed by a stroke and both used canes. “It was like a play or movie,” Romney said, laughing. “We weren’t going to intimidate anybody. We were the walking wounded.”
When he fell at the 1997 national championship, players helped him up as they always did. “The opposing team couldn’t believe their eyes. It was funny.” But that’s not all.
As Miya, assistant head coach Paulina Afu, Romney and the female players led the seemingly uninspiring team onto the field, “People said it was the most bizarre thing they’d ever seen,” he said.
It seemed to Romney that onlookers hardly even noticed the team’s 20 male players.
Meanwhile, players’ parents “took in stride such a bizarre-looking coach and a woman assistant,” Romney explained. Still, people winced when the team took the field.
But Romney’s Goats won the national championship 12-7. After its 45-12 semi-finals rout, the opposing coach said “Our team had the best sportsmanship of any team on any level he’d ever seen,” claimed Romney.
He once the Goats’ “religion” of good conduct meant more to him and his players than their record.
Romney team nickname of Goats—G for Good and S for Sports—is because he wanted players who were good sports. Miya wrote a cheer which the East Side football team repeated at practice: “We are East and we have pride, our fame is known from far and wide, hard and fair is how we play, good sports aren’t just words we say.”
Two of the coach’s favorite practice drills made for tough, physical and motivated teams who respected their opponents.
Consequently, player toughness resulted in the development of current Cincinnati Bengals blocking back hopeful and former BYU standout fullback Taufui Vakapuna. “We named a tackle, the Taufui Hit, after him,” the coach said. “He hit so hard, you could hear it all over the stadium.”
Some players wore several extra pads to prepare, Romney remembers, but still hurt for a week. ”Fui liked to hit people. He was so fast and shifty and had good moves.”
Give Romney an assist for Vakapuna’s recently-signed four-year contract with the NFL’s Cincinnati Bengals. The player was unavailable for comment.
Former player Paea Afu remembers Romney as a “hard guy at first” who became “an awesome coach, one of the best I ever had. He treated us as grown-up boys” because he respected them.
Romney gratefully remembers Vakapuna praised him as his best coach ever.
Miya said Romney’s charitable treatment of players made him “generous to a fault,” but charity paid off both in football and church. As the former bishop of the LDS Garden Park 2nd Ward, Romney says seven of 14 teenage priests were on marijuana in 1972, but 12 ultimately served church missions.
“Being bishop and a youth football coach (simultaneously) tied it all together” with counseling and friendship, said Miya. Romney “loves dealing with young people. He doesn’t know about the x’s and o’s of football, but does about young people and how to motivate them.”
The bishop-coach says his talents and abilities were used interchangeably. He admits once skipping Sunday School to attend a classic car competition and allowing an afore-mentioned priest-turning-missionary to drive. Romney said his faith and trust in the boy influenced him to serve.
Some may wonder why a bishop would assist youth in disregarding Sunday School. “It’s easier to repent than ask permission,” he quips in rephrasing a similarly humorous quote on forgiveness.
Now Romney’s grateful years later to observe the former youth and “the influence we had on their lives.”
Two are brothers—his grandsons—and were on Romney’s same football team.
When the younger brother was “clobbered" during a game, according to Romney, his sibling “picked him up tenderly. It was heartwarming for me and the rest of the team.”
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