Traveler

I find Dr William Happer rather interesting. If you are worried about CO2 in the atmosphere you might want to consider the criticism of Dr. Happer. Here is a video https://youtu.be/CA1zUW4uOSw?si=JdWQX-2E0OtQqMjv The Traveler

Thank you for your response and question. Though we use words to communicate, I realize that we do not all understand in the same manner. I do not think I suffer pain as others do. Physical pain is not a big deal to me. Though I do experience pain it does not affect me as I observe its affect on others. I have suffered some serious cycling accidents and though I experience pain I have never experienced debilitating pain. I have always felt that emotional pain is self-inflected, so I refuse to allow such. This does not mean that I am not ever disappointed or sorry – just that I do not let such define me – I see no logic or benefit in it. I have great difficulty in understanding or helping someone that is depressed. I do not believe that we can “see” light and truth and be depressed. Therefore, I do now dwell on sorrow, pain or that which is depressing – rather, I look to the light. I think @zil2 expresses some of what I think amounts to suffering. I do not think we need pain in order to suffer. I think of suffering as giving up something of perceived value for something else of greater value (hopefully for something or actual greater value). I do not think that giving up something that is worthless or valueless for something of value or worth as an act of suffering. I do believe that from the very beginning – Christ suffered. Not so much pain as things that he could have for himself that he gave up for a greater good. We could say that he exercised faith in the Father in that he gave up a pursuit of his own will for the greater good of the will of the father. Some would argue that if the net result is positive or beneficial – that is not suffering but rather an enjoyment. I would only respond by saying – and that is the logic in why we suffer for righteous sake. I see no logic in suffering for darkness or the sake of evil. The Traveler

The lesson for our priesthood next week will be based on the conference talk by Jeffery R. Holland titled “I Am He”. This is a reference that, in essence, declares that Jesus of Nazareth is the Christ. In his talk Brother Holland references 3 Nephi 11:10-11 I intend to highlight the phrase, “I have suffered the will of the Father in all things from the beginning”. I believe that when the Father asked, “Who will I send”, that from the beginning Jesus volunteered to be the Christ. And that from the beginning Jesus “Suffered” to become the Christ. My understanding come from the one great argument of atheists that G-d does not exist because He allows evil – especially evil that destroys innocence. Why would a “good” G-d not just allow but create circumstance that the only result will bring such great suffering– not just because of evil but by the nature of the Universe itself. The answer to this question is also the answer to the great debate over freewill or determination and it all goes back to the beginning – referenced above. G-d is both merciful and just. Because of Christ we are given agency – and it is this agency the initiated the War In Heaven. That war is because of the injustice suffered from the bad exercises of agency of some upon others that did not exercise agency in the same manner. Christ is the “Redeemer”. Not only does he redeem our sins but also all sins of others that contributes to our suffering. In the first place He is able to forgive sin because he is merciful. Then, because He is the means of our agency and is the “creator” of the means by which we are subject to sin – He can justly suffer and redeem sin. No other being is able to be both merciful and just to forgive and redeem sin. Christ is the answer to why G-d can be merciful and just and yet allow the suffering of innocence. Christ redeems the suffering of innocence and bring both justice and mercy for sin and the suffering caused by sin. Brother Holland also references the 4th Article of Faith in his talk where we learn that paramount to the plan of G-d is “Faith in the L-rd Jesus Christ”. First that we have faith that Christ redeems sin. And yet the Book of Mormon tells us that without repentance it will be as though no redemption was made. The reason is also explained in the Book of Mormon in that we are redeemed from sin not redeemed in sin. That without repentance – we remain in sin. If we do not repent before the final judgement we remain in sin and thought Christ suffered for sin, both out of mercy and justice – that if we do not repent the spirit that beguiled sin remains in us and abides with us. So, Christ is also the answer to faith verses works. It is through faith in Christ that we are able to repent. Because of the atonement of Christ and faith in Christ that we repent and sin is overcome and no longer justly able to hold us and bring us suffering. Not just because of our sins but also redeems us from the sins of others that causes us to suffer. Note that repentance requires that we forgive the trespasses of others against us. The Traveler

To those that think the woke left is shooting themselves in the foot. You are missing the bigger picture. The best method to realize how wrong any political notion is – is to give that political movement the power to put their proclaimed agenda into law. What will be discovered is that there is a difference between the proclaimed agenda and the actual political agenda. The work of politics it to shoot themselves in the foot and then to cover it up or blame the opposition. It is my particular wish that the liberals (democrats, left wing or whatever) will vigorously oppose ever possible effort of the conservatives (republican, right wing or whatever). Strong opposition will make it difficult for those conservatives in power to enact even the most needed steps of their agenda. ---- And make it impossible to enact and all the extra or more extreme notions. The Traveler

In my youth there was great concern over a nuclear confrontation with Russia. My best friend’s family built an elaborate fallout shelter in their backyard complete with a 2-year supply of food and water and filters for breathable air. I ought to visit my childhood neighbor to see if it is still there in some form. It was rather large and would be difficult to dismantle. My father did not believe Russia was a problem. As a side note, my home was well stocked with firearms and ammunition – but then we depended on hunting for a fair share of our food. Along this line I mostly gave up hunting following my military experience and then being shot at while hunting – same year an acquaintance was shot and killed while hunting. Also, in my youth, I had the opportunity of being in the middle of two events that ended up in the news. I saw everything unfold from start to finish. In the late 50’s and early 60’s the news could not get their facts straight. After college I went to work for the Defense Department. I was given “talking points” that had nothing to do with the work I was doing that I was to tell everybody about what I was doing (including what I could put on my resume). It is my understanding that any information coming from the government or through the news organizations are carefully and deliberately filtered. There are both good and bad reasons for filtering information. I have two suggestions. First – do not believe what you hear. Rather understand that there is a bias to whatever information you have. If the bias is not completely clear – do not invest a penny in it – If the bias is certain – still take it with a grain of salt. Second – wait for the dust to clear and try to understand a trend – not and so much any particular event. My personal opinion is that white supremacy is not a problem of much concern. Those that are concerned about white supremacy are contributing to a problem and cannot be trusted for a solution. The Traveler

I have a different take on the opening of Nephi’s record. The Family of Lehi was well versed in Egyptian methods. The Book of Mormon was written not in Hebrew but in reformed Egyptian. It was also written before the Rosetta Stone had unlocked the understanding of ancient Egyptian language (written and spoken) and culture. I would assert that Nephi’s introduction is not according to Hebrew literary structures but is a classic Egyptian Colophon widely used by the well educated in the Middle East at the time of Lehi. Let’s look at Nephi’s Colophon: One: His name Two: The merits of his parents, with special attention to the learning of his father. Three: A solemn avowal (similar to Nasim’s curse) that the record is true, and the assertion, “I make it with mine own hand” (1Nephi 1:3) This is an indispensable condition of every true colophon, since the purpose of a colophon is to establish the identity of the person who wrote it down (not the identity of the ultimate author). I would also submit that there are many Egyptian literary forms sprinkled throughout the Book of Mormon along Egyptian names. And yet there are also many Hebrew literary forms also included in the Book of Mormon. In essence the Book of Mormon is a look back into the historical time of the Middle East, unparalleled by even current modern standards that where not known at the time of Joseph Smith. The Traveler

I would say something about bigotry and racism. I would take all these terms and put forth the idea that there are two very distinct levels, types or kinds of bigotry and racism. One is rooted in the fear of things (people and ideas) that are foreign, different and not well understood. At this level we are all racists and bigots. The other level is rooted in the thinking and insistence that justice cannot be served without revenge and punishment. At this level we tend to lose any sense of reason and logic. I do not think this is a matter of spectrum between the two but rather two very different things in and of themselves. And yet we do not separate the two and realize the difference. Yet we will forgive ourselves and others we love or care about and in the next breath condemn to Hell, lessor offences in those that are deemed different. It is my opinion that we ought to refrain from name calling and demonizing and address problems directly and logically. More and more I am learning that if someone cannot discuss a difficult topic or address someone that disagrees without hate and anger – then it is you (or me or whoever) that is the problem. And regardless of who or what is the problem – there is no logic in feeding the fire and making it worse. We cannot control anyone else’s hate and anger – only our own. The Traveler

Like many on this forum – I believed Carter to be one of the greatest individuals to become president. I believe his problem was to trust those in his party that put party (politics) ahead of country. Thus, the problem of his presidency was not him but those that surrounded and advised him. I believe that he was the only president of my lifetime that was faithful to the lady he chose to be his first and only wife. There are very few leaders that during difficult times can be honest with themselves as well as effective leaders (like Moroni in the days of Alma). I regret that we have no such leadership in our country currently. Our culture seems to favor rebellious bad guys (and ladies). The Traveler

Utah has the best skiing. I also love the Settle area. I loved the northwest when I served my mission and Settle was my favorite. It is true that Settle has a woke elitist attitude (among some) but the LDS members are incredible. I would live near Settle of near Ashville NC in a heartbeat but my beloved prefers desert sun shine. It would seem that this life demands sacrifices. The Traveler

I understand what you are saying, and I often act in that manner – but it makes me very nervous and concerned. The biggest concern is myself. Perhaps it is the mathematician and engineer in me – maybe a little of a mental disorder (OCD). I cannot leave an unsolved problem alone. Well, I could but I don’t. Mostly I do not like myself leaving an unsolved problem for someone else to define for me. I think I should explain more. There are very few things I have encountered that I believe have the resolved solution available. It is up to me to come up with the best possibility and move forward. This is in part how I understand the scripture that indicates we should study from the best books. And so, I gather the best information I can. I consult with those I trust and believe to be the best sources to provide background information that I can exchange ideas with. I begin to formulate ideas and theories and check out how well my thinking fits. As I formulate an opinion and resolution – I then make it a manor of prayer – sometimes adding fasting. Usually what I end up with is a best possibility and go with it. Going with it means I also want to keep an open mind – especially when or if I can encounter any alternatives. On rare occasions I am able to conclude that I have the solution to which nothing can be added. Right now I cannot think of anything so concluded. An example: I have received (more than once but one particular very powerful) manifestation that the Book of Mormon is the most divinely scripture available. The problem I continually deal with is in understanding all the light and truth that is available to me in studying and pondering the Book of Mormon. Bottom line – I cannot reconcile any fence sitting logic. I would rather study at my best and make a wrong decision than to not make a decision at all. I value freedom, liberty and the exercise of agency to ignore anything that matters. The Traveler

It is my opinion that even among Christians (disciples of Christ) there is a gross misunderstanding of mercy, justice and repentance. Perhaps the most common symbol of this gross misunderstanding is the Pagan (worldly) notion of the judgment of souls after death by the scale of Mott. Generally, the idea of the scale of Mott is that we are judged with our good deeds on one side and evil deeds on the other. If the weight of one side is greater than the other the scale will tip to that side. If it tips to the good side, then the soul receives the benefits of divine good. If the scale tips to the evil side, then the soul receives the maledictions of demonic evil. This whole idea of the scale of Mott gives rise to the concept of making it into heaven. In essence, that something (usually something divine) outside of us will determine our eternal fate. I believe that the restored truth is that we are given agency to determine completely by ourselves our own eternal circumstances. That the final judgment of soles is merely a clarification of our the exercising of our agency. We are told that all blessings are predicated on obedience to the laws that govern and define eternal blessings or maledictions. I believe that if we are to have a healthy body then we must learn to be obedient to the laws of good health. The same applies to wealth and even things like joy, happiness, liberty and so on. In reality it is this discipline of obedience. It is said that nothing of value is ever accomplished without discipline. I would agree that faith and works are tightly coupled. What I submit as that coupling is discipline. The Traveler

It depends on how one understand G-d and his works. I believe that the more we become familiar with G-d and get to know Him the more we will understand Him and His works and the more it will all make sense (logical sense) to us. Our scriptures tell us that G-d is a G-d of light and truth. That the glory of G-d is intelligence or the light of truth. We are also told that all things testify of Christ. I personally do not connect with the concepts and doctrines that G-d is unknowable and that it is impossible to know of the “mysteries” of G-d. Why do you think that knowing how something is done negates the possibility that G-d is involved? The Traveler

I do not think so – I think most of the world are fence sitters. 🤢 The Traveler

I believe that it is prophesied that the world will be divided between the two camps of Zion and Babylon. I do not think that plays out as conservative or liberals, red or blue or even democrats and republicans. But it is possible that divisions could be initiated along such lines. I am not looking forward to the era of great division. The Traveler

I agree. However, we also learn from the Book of Mormon that when the Gadianton’s take power they will turn against each other (as prophesied with the fall and destruction of the Nephite empire). We also know that the primary targets (to control, replace or destroy) of the Gadianton’s are the individuals that control governments, elected officials, bureaucrats, judges and lawyers. If their power is threatened the Gadianton types tend to become deadly violent. Though it seems that common sense is returning to government – I suspect that the engines of reform will not be tolerated for long. If such engines of reform cannot be controlled the Gadianton’s are quick to determine to eliminate it at all costs. I suspect that the next two years will be difficult (to say the least) for republicans to fulfill their agenda. We will find out many things about hidden swamp creatures The Traveler

It has long been my theory that the star of Bethlehem was not really a “new” star but an old star that went supernova that was around 600 light years from earth. As such the star would be bright enough to be visible during the day and would be unusually bright at night. The reason that I place the star around 600 light years from earth is that at that distance it is likely that there would be enough light energy reaching the earth to cause the ozone to become fluorescent. During the daytime there would not be that much difference except that there would be no shadows. At night it would be exactly as recorded in the Book of Mormon. The sun would be observed to set but there would still be light. Since the entire ozone would be fluorescent there would be no visible source and no shadows. I also speculate that such a very bright star will also be a sign when the Messiah returns (Matt 24). But this time the super nova would be much closer to earth – within 400 light years. This could have enough energy to strip away the earth’s atmosphere and cause the entire surface to burn. All life that was not caught up (changed) by Christ would end and the earth would enter a new phase. The life that remained would be in harmony with Christ (1,000 years of peace) such that there would be no predators. A lion would not harm a lamb and so on. If this is the case the exact time of the return of the Messiah is locked in and established – we are just waiting for the energy traveling at the speed of light to reach or earth. Only those saved by divine providence will survive. The Traveler

To all the forum -- I wish you a Merry Christmas and a prosperious new year. The Traveler

I was traveling in the UK with some friends earlier this year. We were in Ireland for church. There were about 6 couples attending a little ward and I was very impressed. Though the ward was not large it was very friendly. I do not know if Scotland is much different. There are good families in the UK. I am of the mind that you will be guided by the spirit. I believe that the single greatest opportunity for our youth in preparing for marriage is a willingness to serve a mission. When I was on my mission, often I was asked how many missionaries were serving in my mission. My standard response was, “About half of them”. I think this is similar to the ward members listed on the membership rolls. There were just over 1 million members when I served as a missionary. Most of the members were in Utah followed by California that made up close to 80% of all members. When I was in the army – I was the only LDS in my company. I only knew of one other active member on the base. He and I were the only members showing up at church at a tiny branch nearby. Things have a way of working out. Those that honor their covenants have nothing to fear. The Traveler

How can I explain this? In ancient Egypt there was a g-d called Khepri. His symbol was the scarab beetle. It is the symbol of things that are brought to pass – like the sun rising, moving across the sky and then setting. There are some scholars that believe the scripture reference – “And it came to pass” is reminiscent of such divine influence. An initial marriage is a gift of G-d that is given by covenant that we can achieve mostly on our own effort. But, under certain circumstances, one can be gifted something in addition. Something which comes (gifted) entirely from circumstances beyond their control. In essence - "And it came to pass". Maledictions could also be provided for broken promises or covenants. Which in the case of your father most likely was a benediction and not a malediction. The Traveler

I got to show this to my wife - Boy do you deserve a thanks (I don't do hugs - its an engineering thing.) The Traveler

It is my understandint that the presentation of an ordinance may change but the ordinances are never changed. I am of the mind that we are allowed to seek out and have one marriage of our choice. If there is to be another it is only allowed under the conditions that G-d prescribes and initiates. That here on earth where such things are made through divine ordinance – that only the prophet (president of the Church) hold the keys for any ordinance of eternal or divine marriage – which still must be sealed by the Holy Ghose. All others will end when there is a death (until death do ye part). The Traveler

That is only one wink but thank just the same 😎 The Traveler

Many years ago, in college I was given a book to read titled “Satan and all his works”. The basic premise of the book is that everything that happens on this earth is the direct result of either Satan’s or G-d’s control. In essence humans’ control nothing beyond their choice (at any given moment) of who’s side they are on. I was so influenced and overcome by this book and the description of Satan’s influence that I was unable to finish the book. Basically, the concept was that just about everything that takes place is in essence under Satan’s control (with very few exceptions – none of which are well chronicled in the historical narrative). I have never encountered that book again, but it has had a profound on my perception of this world and the scripture notion that Satan is the g-d of this world. I am of the opinion that G-d’s works are woven into the historical tapestry in such a manner that only through the “Spirit” can we even perceive G-d’s purposes – that is, until the Massiah returns. The Traveler

We all interpret scripture according to our particular paradigm of what such ought to mean. I have often pondered the meaning of G-d as our spiritual Father in Heaven. This parallels the concept of earthly parents (father and mother) as co-creators with G-d of human children. We are also taught that Eve is the “mother’ of all living. I personally have no problem with the idea that G-d’s DNA is the means by which ever living thing that lives or has ever lived on this planet has come to experience life. In essence, that life as we know it is a genetic manipulation of G-d’s own DNA – which is in essence a type and kind of organic evolution. The Traveler

Just as everyone has spiritual gifts (Moroni 10). It would seem that we all have our spiritual weaknesses that evil loves to exploit. Isaiah prophesied that there is a trifecta of separation of mankind from G-d. Transgression of the law, changing of the ordinances and breaking the everlasting covenant. What Satan does with those that find pleasure to separate themselves from G-d is Satan’s pleasure. Hopefully those that experience the flaxen cords applied as the separation stages take place will repent before the flaxen cords become iron chains. The Traveler