Quora Q: "I want to read the Book of Mormon. Is there a plan that gives an overview of its plot and teachings?"

The Book of Mormon has been one of my all-time favorite and dearly loved books.  I am not now a “Mormon.”  Yet, I would highly endorse your desire to read that book.  It has the power to change one’s life!

Here are my suggestions:

*Determine WHY you “want” to read the B of M.  (To feel like a “good,” “responsible,” Mormon?  Out of obligation?  Were you given the challenge and you wish to complete it?  OR, do you deeply, truly, desire to find the jewels hidden within it, to change your mind, your heart, your actions, your life, to become more in compliance with Who YOU were intended to be?  Do you desire to KNOW TRUTH and have that truth “set you free”?  Do you want to Really Know God and Christ and have the power of the Holy Ghost with you at all times… and know what all of those truly signify?  You CAN!  :-)  It is not only possible, but intended for that purpose.  So, of great importance:  Determine first of all, your purpose in reading.  Your purpose will determine the depth with which you read and the tools you use.  Like all digging, there are striations of insight and wisdom that lie under the cursory level.  Contained within those levels are “jewels” of great insight that will change you deeply.  Those jewels are on reserve for those who “read with real intent” and a “sincere heart.”)

*Do you know the Real Purpose for that book?  (There are many who feel so “special” because they own it.  There are those who spurn it or abhor it, having done much research to discover the “errors” and “fraud” and expose those.  Do you really know who “authored” it and why?  Every book has its intended audience and purpose.  WHY was the time and effort and money invested to finally get a copy into Your hands?  Within the storyline, individuals such as Nephi, Mormon, Moroni risked their lives, gave all their worldly treasures, sequestered themselves in a cave for years and wrote, not via a keyboard or ballpoint pen, but with crude, laborious implements on metal plates and tablets which they had to first make themselves.  There are those who gave years of their lives, their worldly possessions, tremendous sacrifice of all kinds… and it is now available for You to read.  It was obviously (at least as far as the story goes) of tremendous value to many to make it available for you.  WHY???  Although there are numerous ideas thrown around, the clearest and most accurate answer I have ever found for the Real Purpose and intent for The Book of Mormon can be discovered within the book:  Without Disclosing My True Identity—The Authorized and Official Biography of the Mormon Prophet, Joseph Smith, Jr.  It can be found and read freely at:  Without Disclosing My True Identity--The Authorized and Official Biography of Joseph Smith Jr.  )

*Set up a time and place to read The Book of Mormon when you will not be distracted, when you can apply your full and focused attention.  With pen (pencils, crayons, you choose) in hand and a notebook for that purpose, open your mind and thought-fully ask yourself what questions you have that very moment that you desire help with.  What is happening in your life, in your personal relationships?  What questions do you have?  Date and record those questions within your notebook.  Then, again with an open mind, either randomly open up the book and allow your eye to fall upon a verse, or read sequentially.  If your intent is earnest and pure… you WILL receive an answer meant for YOU in your life and present situation.  Record your answer in your notebook.  As you later go about your day, pay attention to how that answer is affecting your life and relationships.  Later record those insights in your notebook as well.  Allow your record-keeping to be your own personal journal, bridging your world and current experiences with Moroni’s knowledge of you.  (Moroni 8:  34 “Behold, the Lord hath shown unto me great and marvelous things concerning that which must shortly come, at that day when these things shall come forth among you.  35 Behold, I speak unto you as if ye were present, and yet ye are not. But behold, Jesus Christ hath shown you unto me, and I know your doing.”)  If you can open your heart to try to conceive that yes, indeed, Moroni DID see YOU and give his life and effort to write what he knew YOU would benefit the most from, you will read… and find… the gifts he buried for you to find and apply in your present situation.

*Use “R.S.V.P.”:  1)  READ.  Not just the words.  Without glossing over the contents to fulfill a certain number of verses or time, but read slowly, savoring the words, the messages.  2)  STUDY.  Use the online 1828 dictionary to research words that stand out to you.  What was the actual meaning intended by each word?  As Lehi states in the second chapter, one of the two reasons for “the brass plates” was to preserve the language of his people.  Definitions have deteriorated and changed greatly in the 190 years since the Book of Mormon was published; even many of the words and phrases that could easily be glossed over.  Don’t take anything for granted.  Why were the words/ phrases/ stories/ principles sequenced like they were?  What did each word or phrase mean originally?  Use a concordance.  Draw maps.  (Don’t rely on maps or charts generated by a church.  Make your own in your notebook. ) If there seems to be a list of qualities or principles, write that list in your notebook.  Connect the dots of the hints written within the text.  THINK… CRITICALLY.  Open your mind.  FOCUS.  Do NOT use “church authorized” study materials.  FIND that which has been left undiscovered by most everyone else.  Make it Your book, written for You.  3)  VISUALIZE.  Create the movie in your mind.  See the color, the textures.  Use each of your senses.  What did the individuals depicted smell, hear, feel, see, taste?  Allow your internal camera to span onto each of the characters.  What are they wearing?  What is their body language?  What are they thinking or feeling?  Get into their minds, and not just “the good guys.”  Try to understand the antagonists as well.  What might make him feel justified in thinking and doing what he does?  Have you ever felt or acted similarly?  See from each and all perspectives.  4)  PONDER.  Perhaps you only read a small section within your allotted time.  Maybe only one verse or even one phrase.  Ponder upon it.  Allow your mind to explore and open and make connections.

*Record the book in your own voice or utilize the recordings made by others.  Play it and listen as you drive in your car, walk, relax, meditate, eat meals….  Purposely listen to the same section repeatedly.  Upon that second—or fifth—or 17th time, something of great significance might just “pop out” at you with great meaning.  Don’t rush your experience.

*Choose each day to bring your behavior into conformance with your changing insight.  Allow yourself to be changed by your reading.

*Ask… if these things are NOT True….  Read and Believe and Act as if what is contained within this book IS TRUE.  Like a pure, little child… have a believing heart.  ACCEPT what you read as if it IS True.  Your question must be:  “I assume that what I read is true and right and correct and meant for me and for my life.  I will live and experiment on these insights and principles.  Reveal to me if it is contrary, if it is NOT true.  Otherwise, like a pure and trusting child, I will receive this gift with gratitude and joy.  (This method of believing/ receiving is totally opposite of most who read with cynicism and Unbelief and, therefore, cut themselves off from the ability to find the great Jewels possible.  Of course, this attitude and its unprofitability then proves to them its non-validity.  Their very unbelief and intentions becomes self-fulfilling.  However, it need not be IF “Moroni’s Promise” is applied correctly and sincerely.)

*CONTINUE.  Realize that The Book of Mormon is just THE FIRST THIRD of “the golden plates” and that “GREATER THINGS” are held on reserve for YOU… after the “trial of (your) faith.”  TRULY, if read with sincere heart and real intent, the mysteries of Godliness will be unfolded to YOU until you know them IN FULL! (Moroni 8: 12 “And whoso receiveth this record, and shall not condemn it because of the imperfections which are in it, the same shall know of greater things than these. Behold, I am Moroni; and were it possible, I would make all things known unto you.”)  Search “The Sealed Portion” of the Book of Mormon.  Read what was held on reserve for all those who willingly went through “the trial of their faith.”  REJOICE and read that which was NOT included within the original (1/3) Book of Mormon.

*Realize that you DON’T KNOW, yet that you CAN KNOW.  This is having a “broken heart and a contrite spirit.”  This is being “teachable.”  And, unless you are truly teachable, you cannot, will not be capable of Really learning.  But, if you can and DO… THEN… “Ye shall KNOW the Truth and the Truth shall SET YOU FREE!”  You will be let out of your mortal prison, your “probationary state.”  You will “wake up” and truly become “alive in Christ,” having “a new name,” and a Real Purpose for living.  You will then KNOW Christ, Joseph, Nephi, Moroni, and all those who have gone before you with full purpose of heart.  You will then be a recipient of the JOY that was the very reason for your creation.  May you seek… ask… knock… and FIND.  And be set free.

*Let Your LIGHT Shine… so that others might catch the vision and want what You have found.  Spread the JOY!

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Quora Q: "How do you handle familial rejection?:

The greatest liberator is LOVING YOURSELF!  Truly, living the first and Great Commandment:  “Love the Lord thy God (in other words, “YOU”!) with all of your heart, might, mind and strength” will se...

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The greatest liberator is LOVING YOURSELF!  Truly, living the first and Great Commandment:  “Love the Lord thy God (in other words, “YOU”!) with all of your heart, might, mind and strength” will set you free.  Release any and everyone else, even and especially those who share your story and/or your DNA.  Let Them be free to live Their lives as they choose and with those whom They feel comfortable.  Love Them!  And you can only love them properly as you first love yourself properly and completely.  Discover who you truly are, not who they wanted and “raised” you to be, but who you truly are.  Love yourself.  Then, you will attract to yourself a “family” of kindred spirits.  The only way to stop your pain is to change your eyes, or rather, the lens with which you view these others who “cause” you pain.  Quit judging them with expectations of “they SHOULD love me and accept me.”  Let them go… emotionally and physically.  Move on.  There’s an entire world of people who are precious.  Some, like yourself, also feel alone and estranged from their biological family.  Let peace and kindness and mutual respect be your guide as you maneuver through and “find” yourself by “losing” yourself amongst an entire globe of individuals.  Each one precious deep within.  Find your “spirit” brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, children, friends.  Go forth and LOVE!

Quora Q: "If I help others for the peace of my soul, am I considered a selfish person because till the end, my helping others gives benefits for myself?"

Yes. You are very “selfish” for putting yourself before others. But… in actuality, everything you do, everything done by any other… is selfishness.

However…

There IS a way to contribute, selfishly, to the good of others as well as the good of one’s self.

In fact, as one truly tunes in to the deepest parts of one’s self, she would realize that she finds no pleasure or joy in doing that which does not benefit another, truly and for the long term. Indeed, she would see that her selfishness is fulfilled in the joy that she receives from giving joy to others. And when she gives this joy to others, her heart then feels to rejoice for that which she has done. In this way, she receives this joy twofold, having administered her deed in joy and then sharing in the joy that she has administered.

Truly, one can realize for herself that the sacrifice of her own selfishness brings more happiness to her, than the fulfillment of her own selfish desires.

The greatest reward in life is communion. Sexual intimacy is just a tiny sliver of a taste of the JOY possible when one learns and fulfills her life in communion with the true and lasting good of all. This brings one into harmony with all that exists. And all that exists, my friend, is far more extensive than one’s own individual self. Therefore, the reflected JOY that is possible through living each moment in balance, harmony, and communion with all creation has been symbolically called “the pearl of great price.”

I have found my pearl. And, oh, dear friend… may you find yours. Be Selfish. For the good of all.

I hope this helps.

Quora Q: "Why do you believe that Joseph Smith was God's prophet?"

First, I will freely acknowledge that I am not a member nor affiliated with any religious group.  Yet, I DID spend the first forty years of my life as a deeply committed member of a religion that Joseph Smith was involved in founding.  In fact, I gave my heart, mind, time, money, deep devotion to it.  However, in April of 2001, I chose to step outside of that faith. If interested, one may read my exit story at:  Kimberly Davis Wallis' answer to If you left the Mormon church, why did you leave?

It is said that “though you may leave the LDS Church, it can not leave you.”  I did not throw away any of the precious experiences I had had during those former four decades.  Yet, SINCE my leaving “The Church,” I have experienced much, much more that is even more precious to me and has expanded my understanding beyond what a LDS could ever anticipate…. about some of the principle members and tenants.  Some of these experiences were regarding The LDS Temple Endowment, its symbolism, significance, and profound opportunities that were intended to be kept “sacred” but were NEVER intended to be kept “secret.”  I have also come to know Joseph’s intentions, methods, actions far greater than any “skeptic” OR devout member ever could.  Some of the books that assisted me greatly in my journey of the last thirteen years can be found at: The OFFICIAL and AUTHORIZED website of the Marvelous Work and a Wonder®

In 2001, when my biological father was somehow told that I had left the LDS Church, he called me on the phone and in great anger and derision interrogated me as to why.  I would not enter his debate, quoting his own “Article of Faith  #11:  We claim the privilege of worshipping the Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.”  He snarled with derision.  (After all, the Church and his “eternal family unit” means EVERYTHING to him and by leaving “The Church,” I was threatening his eternal relationship to his God).  I understood his perspective, yet saw things so differently.  I had no intention, never did, of “offending” him or anyone.  However, I had matured enough to be True to Myself by that time.  When he retorted:  “Have you started your own religion?  Are you now a prophet?”  I gently yet firmly denied both.  I then ended the call by requesting that, should he desire a relationship with me, he would have to come to peace with me and my life choices and treat me with respect.

That was not to be, however.  I, in fact, have had numerous experiences where others have curiously asked for my input in various (bizarre) gossip that my dad and others were perpetrating against me.  Depending on the intention of the conveyor, I either attempted to clarify the story or just brushed it off.  One of the many opportunities that my biological “family” offered me was how to not judge another’s judgment of me.  (Thank you!  :-)  )

Two years after leaving the LDS Church, I divorced my husband of twenty years.  He immediately sought out the emotional, financial, familial assistance of my “powerful” LDS family.  It was then that the rumors about me REALLY became vile!  Even my precious eight living children were sucked into some of them… as they returned with their dad to the LDS Church.

Surprising me, my dad and step-mom called me up one day and invited me out to eat.  It was there, at a restaurant, that they attempted to rationally explain to me how they had introduced my ex to his current wife (and provided their Alaskan Cruise honeymoon, etc. etc. etc.).  They also divulged:  since I was a hardened “apostate” and my former husband was living the “righteous” life as they sanctioned he should and had taken our children back into the LDS faith, they were disowning me and “adopting” him instead as their oldest child.  I responded that I respected their right to create whatever “family” they wanted, live whatever life they chose, but that there was much, much, much that they did not understand, including me and my life, my former marriage, the LDS Church, etc.  I wished them well and again reminded them that the “family” I chose to be a part of was a global family of peace and mutual respect.

In the ensuing years, my former husband has received the notoriety, been invited and included in “family” photos, parties, reunions, vacations, gifts that my biological siblings enjoy.  I have not.  Bizarre, I know, but nevertheless, understandable IF one knows the “hooks” of the current LDS Church.  I, on the other hand, have been (as warned), the “black sheep,” their embarrassment.  With the deep love that I have for each of my biological “relatives” as well as all those on the planet, I sincerely wish that each of their journeys had been sweeter, yet I realize that each are free to choose their path in life.  They have their rights to explore whatever paths seem right and proper to them.

Yet, a truism is:  “By their fruits ye shall know them.”

IF the peoples’ hearts (which is represented by their actions and words) represent the “fruit” of an ideology, then there are both sweet and delicious, AND bitter and poisonous fruit on the LDS branch of the “Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil.”

In a very thought-filled video, the concept of “following the spirit” is critically examined, showing how, depending upon the spiritual maturity and individual inclination, various individuals can each receive differing answers to their sincere questions of “which church is true.”  Perhaps this video will be helpful to you.

Now, leading back to the question and my answer.  Yes!  I truly, deeply believe that Joseph Smith Jr. WAS God’s prophet.  I KNOW HIM.  I know his heart.  I know his tears and attempts.  I was there then.  I am here now.

How could I truly believe this about Joseph and yet want NOTHING to do with the current LDS church?

If one truly wants to understand Joseph’s intentions and actions, the most correct and amazing book on this subject is also found at the above mentioned site:  The OFFICIAL and AUTHORIZED website of the Marvelous Work and a Wonder® (“Without Disclosing My True Identity:  The Authorized and Official Biography of the Mormon Prophet Joseph Smith, Jr.”)

Blasphemous, perhaps, but I have come to realize that my dad WAS correct in one particular regarding me.  I have joined the ranks of Joseph Smith, Jr. and other “True Messengers.”  I have even come to understand how EVERYONE of us as “children of God” are intended, indeed, Must, likewise learn how to convey correct and timely messages for our mutual “Father.”  In this way, and in answer to Moses’s desires, we EACH become clear receptacles and mouthpieces for Divinity.  (Numbers 11:29  But Moses replied, "Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the LORD's people were prophets and that the LORD would put his Spirit on them!")

So, yes.  Because I understand Joseph’s heart and intents, his life, I DO “believe that (he) was God’s prophet.”  Likewise, I have discovered the way that I and all sincere others can become messengers of Truth likewise.  Blasphemous, perhaps.  Empowering, definitely!

May we each find the LIGHT (pure and clear) within ourselves.  May we each learn to lean on No Man but “the Kingdom of Heaven” within ourselves.  This was the message that Moses wished to have his people receive.  This was the message that Jesus wished to have his people receive.  This was the message that Joseph wished to have his people receive.  This is the message that I and all “True Messengers” (a.k.a. “prophets”) wish to have our people receive.

May we bring forth a cleansed, redeemed, paradisiacal earth wherein dwell holy and beautiful people of ONE GLOBAL FAMILY with “no poor among them,” as was accomplished by Enoch and others.  This is my hope.  This is my vision.  This is my purpose for living.  Namaste’.

"How can you be a TBM member of the LDS church when so much history has been removed or turned into fiction?"

Being integrous in all areas of one’s life is, I believe, the central issue to this question. Most TBM’s (“True Blue Mormons”) rely on the accuracy of reports handed to them by others… “on faith.” I know. I lived and breathed the deepest level of “Mormonism” from birth (1962) until spring of 2001. (If one cares to read about my “exit story,” that can be found at: Kimberly Davis Wallis' answer to If you left the Mormon church, why did you leave? )

Today’s Mormon Church, on top of today’s culture, has most members running so ragged they barely have time to breathe. The stress ensures that many of them do not have the time nor desires to really dig down deep and discover what really, actually, IS the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth regarding the history of their (eternal) “life-line”: The LDS Church. Although this question addressed Mormons specifically, this can also apply to most any area that a child has been brought up to believe and accept as “truth,” right, good, acceptable.

Like everything else, trace the money trail. Trace the (“Priesthood”) “power” trail. Go UP-Stream for your answers. Some of us decide we want no “middle man” (or men) between our self and “God.” We want Truth (with a capital “T”) at all costs. For some of us, that “pearl of great price” DID exact a great price. Yet, the resulting wealth of Knowledge (“Intelligence”) awaiting is way beyond worth the redemption voucher.

This question makes an assumption that “history has been removed or turned into fiction.” BUT… has it? If so, how would one ever know that (OR what the True Story IS) if that one hasn’t first and foremost done as ALL religions plead: “Become as a little child” and mentally be willing to throw out everything that one has been taught, endorsed, believed, lived. Seek/ knock/ ask “with a sincere heart” and “with real intent.” The key is to do this seeking, knocking, asking NOT through “church authorized” sources only, nor to one who benefits from your receiving a certain answer (and churches certainly benefit through “power,” notoriety, tithing money, etc.) but as fully and conclusively as one’s childlike curiosity leads. The way to prove is included in their own Book of Mormon. Moroni

10: 4 “And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.

5 And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.”

IF one’s path is ready for “more,” then their personal, private “Holy Ghost” WILL bring them that “more.” “Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” By applying that new “truth” and “tasting” the relative sweetness of it in comparison to one’s former “truth,” the individual may indeed “know the truth of all things.”

Several years after my own child-like mind and heart assisted my exit from the LDS Church (2001),  a book that COULD assist a “childlike” yet critical thinking Mormon became available: Without Disclosing My True Identity--The Authorized and Official Biography of Joseph Smith Jr. This book has great power to help those so prepared know just WHAT IS THE TRUTH—the REAL Truth—about the early origins and history of the LDS Church? and WHY did Joseph say that: “No man knows my history. If I told you everything I know, you would surely rise up and kill me.”

Many members of the LDS church today have been led to believe that “ignorance is bliss” on some issues. “We are not supposed to know certain things at this time.” “Don’t question the leaders or church-sanctioned doctrine.” “Once in ‘heaven’ you will have your questions answered for you.” Etc. Etc.

The Imporovement Era, June 1945, contains the following quote as part of a Ward Teachers’ message:

“When our leaders speak, the thinking has been done. When they propose a plan–it is God’s plan. When they point the way, there is no other which is safe. When they give direction, it should mark the end of controversy. God works in no other way. To think otherwise, without immediate repentance, may cost one his faith, may destroy his testimony, and leave him a stranger to the kingdom of God.”

Another (of many) source(s) for the same message of “Follow the Prophet,” let HIM think for you is:

“The Debate Is Over” - Ensign Aug. 1979

“Recently, at the Churchwide fireside meeting held for the women of the Church, Young Women President Elaine Cannon made the following statement:

“When the Prophet speaks, … the debate is over” (Ensign, Nov. 1978, p. 108).

“I was impressed by that simple statement, which carries such deep spiritual meaning for all of us. Wherever I go, my message to the people is: Follow the prophet. Why else has the Lord placed prophets on the earth throughout the dispensations of time?…”

(This was written by… of course… a “prophet, seer, and revelator”: N. Eldon Tanner.)

YET, in many places WITHIN their “church-sanctioned doctrine” it states otherwise. For instance, again in their Book of Mormon: Alma 12:

9 “And now Alma began to expound these things unto him, saying: It is given unto many to know the mysteries of God; nevertheless they are laid under a strict command that they shall not impart only according to the portion of his word which he doth grant unto the children of men, according to the heed and diligence which they give unto him.

10 And therefore, he that will harden his heart, the same receiveth the lesser portion of the word; and he that will not harden his heart, to him is given the greater portion of the word, until it is given unto him to know the mysteries of God until he know them in full.

11 And they that will harden their hearts, to them is given the lesser portion of the word until they know nothing concerning his mysteries; and then they are taken captive by the devil, and led by his will down to destruction. Now this is what is meant by the chains of hell.

12 And Amulek hath spoken plainly concerning death, and being raised from this mortality to a state of immortality, and being brought before the bar of God, to be judged according to our works.

13 Then if our hearts have been hardened, yea, if we have hardened our hearts against the word, insomuch that it has not been found in us, then will our state be awful, for then we shall be condemned.

14 For our words will condemn us, yea, all our works will condemn us; we shall not be found spotless; and our thoughts will also condemn us; and in this awful state we shall not dare to look up to our God; and we would fain be glad if we could command the rocks and the mountains to fall upon us to hide us from his presence.”

Regardless of where one finds one’s self on the stairway to lasting peace and True Success, one can be a “True Blue” ANYTHING as long as they are truly doing THEIR best, seeking and searching with an OPEN, childlike mind and heart and… drumroll, please… “treating all others as they want to be treated”… to the ultimate degree one understands at the time. This injunction is not only contained in the Mormon church, but within EVERY religion and culture throughout time. The premise to “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you” is buried within every heart. As one clings to THIS, one will be led to understand all things, even the history of one’s “beloved church.”

Thus, IF a person Truly, deeply resonates with the Mormon church and it serves their needs, no questions, no doubts, just total and lasting peace… then the history does not even matter. However, if there is the slightest cognitive dissonance when one allows one’s self to privately ponder, then one just might be ready for “the ride of a lifetime” to find the ultimate, precious “Truth” (with a capital “T”).

All the best to each of you in your individual pursuits.

I hope this has been helpful.

What should I gift to my father on father's day?

What should I gift to my father on father's day?

That depends !  J  Who do you consider your father?

This may seem a bizarre question, but let me strive to explain, hopefully in a way to bring understanding:

A bird creates a nest, releases fertilized eggs from within her body, then sits upon them to keep the eggs at a stable warm temperature to allow for their further development.  After the maturation is complete within that cramped sphere, a young bird cracks open her shell, emerges from her “womb” which would have become her “tomb” if she had stayed longer, and gradually becomes comfortable with the next stage of her life in her new world… the nest.  Here, the mother, not the egg via the mother, but the mother directly (and/ or father) feed the hatchling from their own mouth.  The tiny bird sees her parent fly off, returning some time later with yummy food which is transferred from mother’s beak to child’s mouth, thus appeasing the gnawing pain felt in its stomach. 

Mother birds have sufficient wisdom to understand that this tiny new creature is still dependent upon her for its continued life.  She also understands that neither her life nor her child’s is complete if she overdoes her role and continues to care for her growing young after it has developed to a point of being capable of caring for itself.  Thus, the time eventually comes when the young bird MUST venture forth from its second womb, the nest, and seek its own food.  Sometimes, the bird’s attempt is not successful and, instead of discovering its wings and flight, it plummets down to the ground and meets an untimely demise.  Other times, its second birth… into the heights and breadths of a three dimensional world… is successful.  Then, this maturing bird is entitled to enjoy another reality:  It can FLY!  Eventually, this next stage might allow her to find a mate for herself and go through her own scenario of bearing eggs and raising progeny.  Always, the goal is to maintain a balance so that all generations’ life cycles are correctly and successfully realized and all of nature remains in relative harmony. 

Although birds hatch and quickly appear very much like their parent, some animals go through various stages of transformation until their final body type.  A caterpillar must maneuver through egg, worm, cocoon, and finally, butterfly.  Each stage requires a different skill set, a different appetite and food source, and a different body.  A tadpole first emerges as an egg, and then begins to grow a tail, and then feet, finally losing his tail as his gills develop into lungs.  This newly developed creature, a frog, in no way resembling its original “self,” must now leave his world of water and be “born again” into an atmosphere of oxygen.  To fail to correctly and completely take a breath of air means sure and sudden death, even after successful completion of each former stage.

Is man any different?

No, not in the ways that he has arrogantly and ignorantly assumed!  Yet, because there is no correct “vision, the people perish.”  We have, as a culture, bought into a severely lowered understanding of our potential, individually and globally.  In our collective ignorance, we have accepted half-truths and false understandings. We have been accepting, “honoring,” and paying tribute to the wrong “fathers!”  J

Stay with me here….  J

Are You My Mother is a simple, well-loved children’s classic that I have read scores of times to children who see the gentle humor, feeling the growing tension of the search, as a little bird seeks to find his “mother.”  The book opens with a mother bird sitting on her egg. When the egg begins to move, she leaves the nest to find some food for her anticipated baby. In her absence, the egg hatches, and the hatchling sets out in search of his mother. He asks a kitten, a hen, a dog, and a cow if they are his mother and each, more or less, say "no." He sees a rusty car, a far-away boat, and an airplane, questioning each of them, “are YOU my mother?” only to determine that, no, they each fail his test. Finally, he finds a construction digger, which he calls a “Snort.”  The digger lifts him high in the air, frightening him terribly, then drops him back into his nest where he meets his mother as she is returning home from her own quest.  Snuggling together at last, the bird (and each child) feels deeply reassured that his world is safe and secure once again.   He has found his rightful mother. 

So, what does this have to do with the question of a gift for Father’s Day?  Please… allow me to expand your awareness on this MOST important of ALL topics.  J  (Although my thesis is NOT “religious,” I will expose hidden jewels from several avenues.  There is SOOOO much to glean on this subject.  What I share here, because of my desire to be as concise as possible, will merely scratch the surface and warrants many more disclosures.  I suggest that each reader with determination to understand, open her heart and mind and sincerely ask for further insight.)

Okay.  Here goes:  J

Many religions have specific rites of passage.  One shared by most is some form of “baptism,” in which the initiate is symbolically washed clean with water.  Within the LDS religion, the baptism is not considered complete unless it is followed by the “confirmation” ordinance.  Clueless to its hidden symbology, most “religious” people, including the LDS, fail to understand the deep significance of their confirmation.  The mandate is:  “Receive the Holy Ghost.”

When a tender infant leaves his mother’s womb and is, thus, born of the water(s), because his spiritual eyes are still immature, he quickly closes them and adopts (as prophesied) “eyes that do not see, ears that do not hear.”  Thus, in his spiritual “blindness,” he fails to realize that his initial birth into the world of matter is merely a temporary “second womb,” the womb of spirit or emotion.  Only when a person spiritually (emotionally) matures (which usually takes many, many life times!) and completes his spiritual (emotional) journey concomitantly with his physical development, is his original goal realized.  (Picture the analogy in fairy tale of “Beauty” finding the “Beast” and the two falling in love… of necessity BEFORE “the last rose petal falls”… or rather, death ensues.) 

The baptism (for those who believe in and use its veracity) is merely a “second chance” on one’s first birth.  Coming out of the water, dripping wet and symbolically naked (in pure white clothes), the initiate has been “washed clean” and is allowed another opportunity to start afresh to live “right-use-ly.”  An absolute and zealous change of mind (“repentance”) with an accompanying determination to live in accord with the highest within one’s self is a personal, non-religious “baptism.”  However, again, this physical birth and subsequent baptism only signify the “FIRST birth.”  “Must” allows no wiggle room.  There is a mandate:  “Man MUST be born AGAIN or he can in no wise enter the kingdom of heaven.”  Another birth is requisite.

As Jesus taught Nicodemus:  a man (EVERY human) MUST be “born again”… of “the spirit,” the whole spirit or Holy Spirit. 

The grave is not the goal!  As is promised throughout fairytales, scripture, myth, the LDS Endowment, and, most of all, within humanity’s inner “knowing,” death is NOT the front door into heaven.  It is the back, revolving door. To “run and not be weary, to walk and not faint” and to have “the destroying angel pass one by,” to receive “immortality and eternal life”… IS the goal.    Dying is merely a failed attempt at reaching one’s final destination. 

Purposely synchronized, one’s “Father” awaits each “hide and seek” quest, eager and ready to provide all that was formerly promised:  “Health in the navel, marrow in the bones, strength in the loins and in the sinews….”  There has never been a greater gift promised.  Never a more sincere mandate:  “RECEIVE the Holy Ghost!”… the proffered gift.

There is only ONE “True” Father for each one of us.  “He” is the one that will feed his mortal avatar correctly and guide him or her to a complete and final merger with all its promised reward.  Thus, the body and spirit (whole, holy emotional well-being [JOY]) becoming one inseparably connected and immortal “Soul.”

Although this truth is naively promoted by many in the statement:  “I am a child of God,” out of the other side of their mouth and a second after singing this song, they may be discussing the inevitability of their death.  WHAT?!  If a tadpole were to promote that he was a child of a frog, and yet fail to continue his full development into froghood, dying in complacency, that would be a lamentable thing!

Having precious and respectful love for each human on this planet, still, my role is to “pull the rug out from under” mortality’s feet and remind those prepared of their original, implanted goal.  Yes, I will continue to rock your foundation!  J  A mortal, biological “father,” one who contributes his DNA upon conception, is intended to be a source of protection, assistance and nurturing for his progeny.  BUT ONLY UNTIL THAT CHILD MATURES PHYSICALLY.  It is intended that that child is raised correctly into respect for himself and all others and mentored how to maintain his emotional stability, also by the time of physical maturity.  This is spiritual maturity.  At that point, the child-parent relationship is then re-defined as one of equals.  The two are now equal, respectful, global siblings… just like everyone else. 

To endeavor to enforce a permanent relationship of “father/ mother à son/ daughter” is a horrendous disservice.  That is the mamma bird disallowing her child from finding her own wings and creating her own life… as an equal.  We are ONE global family; all “brothers” and “sisters.”  The LDS Church’s “eternal family” focus has created confusion, heartache, and contributed significantly to the rising generations’ suicide epidemic.  Again, we are ALL ONE GLOBAL FAMILY of siblings.

“Jerusalem, Jerusalem, how oft would I have gathered you as a hen gathers her chicks, and yet ye would not.…”

When the still, small, inner voice (of one’s “Father”) is not heard or collides with the pleading or demanding outer voice of the biological parent who insists that NO, *HE* is the one who should be “honored” that the child’s “days may be long upon the land,” the cognitive dissonance that ensues has left in its wake confusion, depression, anger, and… often led to what appears to be the only way out… ending the great tug-of-war.  But, this emotional and mental “Armageddon” could lead to “rest,” “revival,” and “the front door” into “heaven,” if only one knew that that front door exists and is possible. Yet, there HAVE been some who have found this very door, leaving clues to its existence and pathway.

The Greatest Gift one can give one’s mortal father, mother, sister, brother, neighbor, self… is to accept the gift from one’s TRUE Eternal “Father” of “receiving the Holy Ghost.”  Yet, “He” will “force no man to heaven.”   His gift must be truly wanted.  Tried and discarded must be one’s selfish individual “free” will.  In its place, with confidence and humility must be the declaration:  “THY will be done.”  I want what THOU wants for me, not what my without-wisdom avatar THINKS it wants.  And what is the True Eternal “Father’s” Will?  To grant each and every one of us, His children, with “immortality and eternal life,” living in a restored “paradisiacal” earth where there is NO POOR among us and we each and all live with mutual respect and honor for each other.  THIS is eternal family life.

When our decisions are ALL made from the sincere lens of “what is best for everyone?” versus “what do I (which includes my own biological family) want?” then we are likely gifting “an acceptable gift” for our True Father.  We are then helping Him in His work and His glory (“to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man”).  Anything less is a fleeting and corrupt gift while refusing “His” proffered gift, and contributes to the disintegration of global harmony, working against the Father and His work for all of his global family:  to provide ALL of His children with their basic necessities and to protect their self will as they pursue happiness in their journey of finding Him… and eternal life. 

Here is the link for us to globally and as one united family put the Father’s Plan into action:  http://www.humanityparty.com/

Exactly one year ago this “Father’s Day”:  June 18, 2016, I experienced what few currently on this planet have experienced.  I merged, once again, with my own Eternal Father.  I received “His” gift.  My receipt of “His” gift to me was the greatest Father’s Day gift I could ever give “Him.”  I wrote about my experience in the following link: 

http://loveistheanswer-kimberly.blogspot.com/2016/07/free-will-isnt-free_8.html

Because of the unspeakable JOY I felt, and continue to feel continually, every day of my life, MY next pursuit is fulfilling my responsibility to assist any other so desirous of receiving and giving that same unfathomable gift.  Oh, how I longingly look forward to a grand, global “Father’s Day!”  J

So… “How is this done, you ask?”  Oh, I am so glad that you are curious!  I would love to demonstrate.  Stay tuned…..

Going “Home”

April 22, 2001, a day that could have been just “an ordinary Sunday” for most anyone else… changed my life in a pivotal way. Probably the synchronicity of events worked perfectly in my behalf. I had given birth to Harmony (my 8th child) the previous August and “taken off” the next two or three Sundays, enjoying being home alone with just my new little angel. Then, for most of the next few months, I was a regular substitute in either the youngest Primary classes, Primary Chorister, or with the nursery toddlers. I realized that being with these young children and sharing the pure, undiluted principles of “the gospel,” (basically, “be kind because everyone is your neighbor”, etc.) was what the gospel of Jesus Christ was really all about. That was exactly where “Jesus” would have chosen to be.  These children were warm, responsive and had “the Mormon Glow” (see my answer to this question if interested).  Although I did maintain my monthly Relief Society teaching calling for the sisters, most of my church experiences were, for those several months, with the pure-in-heart children.

However, after taking Parker (my 7th child, two years old at that time) to his nursery class on this particular morning, I realized that “Since I’m not substituting today, I guess it’s time for me to attend class with my age-peers.”  This choice allowed for a pivotal experience. Sitting near the back of the chapel in the Gospel Doctrine class, I saw my dear friends in attendance, watched a man I very much liked “teach” them from the “authorized” material, and yet I saw, superimposed over the scene, this “teacher” plugging pacifiers into the adult “students’” mouths and “lulling them off to sleep” with his words, words that came from a prescribed book from the “authorities.” It seemed to me that the members were zombies just sitting in attendance for their “weekly transfusion.”

As I sat there and allowed myself to just open up my gaze and look, really look, I was seeing the same scene I had seen multiple times throughout my life; and yet my eyesight now seemed to have changed. My dear friends were nothing but robots… lukewarm child robots with no blood pumping in their own veins, no life in their eyes, no passion moving them. My heart felt ready to break. I had seen them before, of course, I had sat through literally thousands of Sunday School classes. Yet, for some inexplicable reason, things seemed to have changed. Or was it me?

Stunned at this familiar scene that I was finally really witnessing, I watched… really watched… for several minutes. Then, in despair, I offered up a silent prayer, “Father, what do I do? What do I do?!”

“Go home,” I felt in answer.

In amazement, I did go home. But not immediately. Having never even ditched a class in high school and having given 1000% of myself to “the church” throughout my entire life, this moment was a real struggle within me as I initially tried to subjugate what felt to be a bizarre call to rebellion.  And, though I took it somewhat quickly, I unconsciously allowed myself to break it down into steps.

I went first to my (then) husband’s 14-year-old Sunday School class. Here was the same scenario acted out, just with younger actors and on a smaller stage. The seven or eight teenagers in attendance were anywhere but within their physical bodies sitting on those metal chairs. Looking around, I saw the glazed look of the eyes and the body language that communicated that they were merely “doing their time.”

David was teaching about Joseph Smith’s “first visitation”—an experience that, to my understanding at that time was a profoundly pivotal and thrilling experience that could give LIFE to anyone who listened with ears to hear and a heart to understand. Yet, David droned on in the same robotic re-hashing that these youngsters had probably heard scores of times before. After a few minutes, I smiled a weak “thank you and excuse me,” gathered up Harmony and my bags and… walked the few blocks home.

Putting my baby down to sleep, I stretched myself out on my bed and let sobs shatter forth from my body. My heart was breaking open, letting many years of unexpressed confusion and emotion flow out. I bawled. I pounded my fists upon the mattress. I sobbed sobs which had yearned for release for quite some time. Finally, I was able to speak: “Father, I would scrub toilets for the rest of my life if that would help you in your kingdom. Where do you want me? Where can I serve you the most?”

In answer, I received, “You can serve me the most where your heart feels the most comfortable” (repeated three times). I marveled as the words sank in… deeper and deeper. I pondered. I was “still” and waited… and as my heart warmed and expanded to allow understanding to open up to me, I “listened” to my feelings, my inner wisdom.

Where DID I feel comfortable? In the church that I had thought every day of my life was HIS? I had to admit, no. Although I had for all of my life desired to attend and serve within it, I no longer did. My attempts now felt fruitless.

I was then told, “Then I don’t want you there.”

I pondered on the myriads of opportunities that I had been given and accepted in my attempts to pour forth the intensity of my love, faith and enthusiasm for living what I believed with all of my heart to be “the true gospel of Jesus Christ” with its “saving ordinances” to my fellow brothers and sisters. (I had had my first “calling” in “the church” at 13 years old, as Primary Pianist.  I had since been Laurel Class President, had given the Commencement speech in High School Seminary Graduation, served and presided over thousands of young adults at BYU as the Stake Activities Director [in the now Provo Tabernacle turned Temple], been Stake Primary President at the young age of 25, served in several other stake and ward leadership positions over the next decade, completely supported my husband in his Bishopric and Stake callings, contributed whole-heartedly in each and every way I possibly could throughout my nearly 40 years of life.

I had intently and with real desire to KNOW and APPLY the jewels of the Book of Mormon to my life read and studied it dozens of times and over thousands of hours.)  I thought of the many times I had attended classes and activities with the prayer in my heart to be “His voice,” “His hands,” “as He directs.” So often I had sensed the apparent life-lessness of others in attendance, and yet I had felt and convinced myself that my love and passion could and really would help. Now, however, I had changed. And as I opened up to a literal course-change, it was with some trepidation and unknowing, yet with conviction and a reservoir of peace that empowered me. In awe and amazement, I realized that… I was not going back.

Needless to say, this caused no small stir within my world. After a few weeks of not attending and of gently requesting to the Relief Society President to be released from my teaching calling among the women, the Bishop called and asked to talk with me. He and others assumed that I must have had my feelings hurt in some way or another. I had not. I just simply did not “fit” in their church any more. I was realizing that my “church” inside me was far more real than any mortal sanctuary and its proscribed regulations.

I also realized, and claimed the right to have no “middle-man” in my personal and very real relationship with divinity. I wanted out of any and all “boxes.” I wanted the FULLNESS of truth… with no barriers, no walls. I wanted to know the REAL truth and to let that truth completely set me free.

I saw the handful of times that I had gone to my “Bishops,” “Stake Presidency” or “Temple Workers” with sincere questions and needs… only to feel that “they were just as ignorant as anyone else, only some of them placed themselves higher than others upon the hierarchy of mankind. The reason why not one of them ever had offered me a surer link to “God” than I had manifested repeatedly for myself by myself was because… none of them could! They were simply other human beings wandering blindly down their own paths, unaware of the pure and piercing lights of their own souls, thus, unable to be a light for me or anyone else!

Now, however, the bishop implored me to come back, stating that “many women in the ward had said that they didn’t feel the spirit any more without (me) in their classes.” I looked him deeply in the eyes and said, “Bishop, the women and the ward do NOT need ME, they need to find the Spirit for themselves. I will always continue to love them and desire to be their friend as long as they would like, but I am choosing to no longer participate in the church.” I pondered on what I should do with my church “membership,” but felt impressed to, “Let them do with you whatsoever they wish.”

My children each came to me within the next few days (although my oldest one did not for a few weeks) and asked if they could stay home with me and have me teach them on Sundays, each expressing their own “reason” and feelings. I always responded that, as always, I wanted them to tune into, listen to and follow their own divine direction, and that I would support the direction that they felt to go. Thus began some tremendously liberating and wondrously fun Sundays.

David, however, was intensely afraid and confused, expressing great anger. How DARE I give up on that which was the most important element in life… the “one and only true church upon the earth?!”

But, I did dare.  And, looking back, it is that very courage, that element that said, “I want truth at ALL costs!” that paved my way and prepared me for life “beyond.” That same daring continues to lead me further still.  I have NO REGRETS that I was originally raised with the gospel according to “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.”  Because I had not read nor sought “anti” materials, was not “offended,” and because I did not yet utilize the internet that swiftly then became available, I truly followed no one, but my own inner compass.  However, since that day in April, 2001, I have been led to further and further amazing truths that have shed profound light on, “the church” and the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith, Jr., the Endowment and Temple Work, Jesus Christ,  the “priesthood,” etc. etc. etc.  Truly, following with greater and greater confidence and clarity, “this little light of mine” inside has brought me the precious “pearl of great price,” and, yes, “the Truth, the Real Truth, has set me free!”

My joys, my understandings, my true relationships, my “Knowing” of “Jesus the Christ” and all those I had so earnestly sought to “Know” for those prior 40 years, has come to fruition.  Not within any man-made walls or sanctuaries, but within my own  physical frame, I have found “the peace that passeth all understanding.”  (All of that, and so much more, I will save for later posts.)  For those who need to be pacified, need “the milk of the gospel,” let them suck where their hearts feel the most comfortable, whomever their surrogate parent.    For me, I want to experience and understand the heights, the depths, all that was originally promised me.  No “robotic” life for me!  Although I want this for everyone else, too, I realize that we all have our own time table.  Though my “leaving” the LDS Church caused great rifts in many lives, I have since come to peace for those others as well, knowing that we each get that which we really, truly want.  For those who want that which the LDS Church offers, I truly support their feasting at that table.  For me, my heart now enjoys what to me tastes far more exquisitely delicious and needs no three-hour per week “re-fill” because I continually feast and am filled.