Traveler

I have thought about the election (which did not turn out as I expected). I am not sure what will happen next. I think Trump is mistaken about a lot of things, but I will begin with the economy. I believe that Trump believes that the key to the economy is energy – in particular fossil fuels. I am quite sure increasing our use of fossil fuels through drilling will take longer than Trump realizes. Unless old drilling methods are used. That would be a quick solution but could backfire before the next presidential election. Can Trump bring back the Abraham accords? Maybe – I think that is the best hope to settle the Middle East. Ukraine, I believe, is a bridge too far for Trump. My biggest concern is internal the opposition to Trump. There has been an effort to stop Trump by extreme methods – including murder. The left has demonstrated that when upset they can be hazardous to life, property and the rule of law (lies before a FISA court). My biggest hope is that Musk will be put in charge of optimizing government operations and weeding out waist. In summary, I thought Harris would win – now I have to take a serious look into my political opinions. When white water rafting, I live by the philosophy that what ever has happened is in the past and the most important thing is to get ready for what is coming next. I have no idea what is coming next. The Traveler

Not near the problems that supposed mandates cause in a divided electorate. The Traveler

I was about to put together my personal opinions about abortions and the sanctity of life. I am working through how to present my thoughts. But then I read this post. It reminds me of a character on a TV sitcom called George Costanza where he said, “It is not a lie if you believe it’s true”. There are two kinds of characters here as mortals on earth. In scripture that are labeled as the covenant saints of G-d and the natural man. Isaiah gives us a little more detail in explaining how men draw away from G-d. They do so by “transgressing the Law, changing the Ordinances and breaking the Covenants.” The two other terms in scripture that describe the two kinds of characters are the righteous and the wicked. By default, we all are wicked which are heavily influenced by Satan. To become righteous, we must become disciples of Christ. The word disciple has the same root meaning as discipline. In order to shake off the natural wickedness within us all we must become disciplined through the ordinances and covenants given by Christ. Through these ordinances and covenants we become “born again” new creatures that abhor evil (which includes the evil lies). There is an essence of the divine within us all – even Satan. With this divine essence we are given agency to bear darkness (lies) or light (truth). I see no other possibility for the creatures that dwell here on earth from the scriptures we are given – we are either a creature of righteousness or we are a creature of wickedness. If there is another option – I would be most open to how that option is described in scripture. The Traveler

The brightest object in the universe is called a Quasar. When I was young no one knew what a quasar was, and they had no idea what could cause such a release of light and energy. We are quite sure that a quasar is a supermassive black hole that is feeding on whatever is near it – presumably other stars. Quasars are the greatest sources of light in the universe that we know of. I find it interesting that the greatest source of light in the universe is at its core, a black hole. I speculate that Kolob is, in reality, a quasar. In Abraham chapter 3 we are told among the great stars that one of them is near to the “throne of G-d” and that there are many great stars near this very great star that the L-rd calls Kolob. Quasars are the greatest stars of the universe. In the Book of Enoch we learn that stars are a means of purifying corrupted matter. One of the great modern discussions concerning black holes (or Planck Star) dissolve the intelligence of matter which is somewhat contrary to our knowledge of physics. Stephen Hawking theorized that black holes are fuzzy in order to preserve the intelligence of matter. I theorize that black holes (quasars) are the divine means of cleansing corrupted matter. I have had problems with black holes being outer darkness – they just do not seem to fit nicely into the paradigm. Recently I have been learning about rogue planets. Current theory is that much of the “missing matter” in interstellar and intergalactic space are rogue planets. Especially intergalactic rogue planets would be objects that exist the farthest from any light source. They are the darkest objects that exist in the darkest regions of our universe. It is interesting to note that nothing exist without light – we are kind of told that in D&C 88. I am referring to the notion that there is no existence where there is no kingdom. My thought is that without light there cannot be a kingdom. We also know that G-d presides over the outer darkness because it is a place he prepared (created) and therefore, of necessity, there must be some light however so little. But then this is all just my speculations. Comment however you wish. The Traveler

My grandfather had a root cellar. It was dug out of the ground and covered with dirt and growing stuff. It was a dirt path down to a heavy wooden door to get inside. There were always spider webs everywhere by the entrance. For punishment, grandpa would lock us inside for a time. I was under the impression at the time that the heaven wooden door was a back door to hell. I loved to explore everywhere at grandpa’s – especially the old barn. But the root cellar was not a place I would go to willingly – I also avoided the bee hives. The Traveler

You will note that I tied my facts to the GNP (gross national product) rather than dollar amounts. I would also point out a basic understanding of economics (Milton Friedman – noble prize winning internationally famous economist) that government spending is the single most driving engine of inflation (according to history referenced by Milton Friedman). I have a book published in the 60’s (now out of print) titled, “The Economics of Poverty”. This book covers the data from the 1960 census from which the Great Society was initially founded. This establishes the initial spending. For current spending – I have accessed official government data. You will also note that I have referenced the works of Milton Friedman. I believe it is interesting that you reference generational poverty. The poverty of 1960 was very different – it was primarily rural. The current poverty is almost entirely inner-city poverty. The reason I find this interesting is because rural poverty is able to find some relief from the land where people can grow and share food stuffs. Inner-city poverty has no such resources and is entirely dependent on charitable handouts. I believe two aspects are very important in the development of current poverty. First is that generational poverty is much more prevalent. Those receiving government subsidies are somewhat generationally locked that was not so much previously. Also, there is a greater correlation between poverty, mental illness and drug use. The other (or second) is that prior to 1960 poverty could be mostly overcome by education. But the government has also become involved in procuring educational loans. This has caused a tremendous debt in seeking advanced education rendering a new kind of poverty among the well-educated. Harris said she would go after price gouging – I would submit that one of the greatest gouging in our economy since 1960 has been in the cost of higher education. While Harris said she would prevent gouging – the administration she belongs to has added fuel to rising costs of education by forgiving the excessively higher educational loans. The political party mostly behind this are the democrats but with the help of republicans that have promised one thing and provided the exact opposite in league with the democrats. You are so correct – it is not how politics work. Which is exactly why politics always fails – especially with social programs. Your approach is why things are doomed to get worse and will never get better if left to the political. I would point out that there are historical alternatives. Milton Freidman offered the best possible approach to poverty I have encountered. But I see no reason to discuss details until individuals like yourself are willing to admit current failures. In essence your thinking is very good, but we must realize that with any effort there will be shortcomings. Those and the lower levels of any economy will always suffer the most economically. I believe we could replace all our social spending with a “negative income tax” program offered by Milton Friedman. If you were aware of his genius, we would not have to discuss this in detail. I would be glad to open a discussion with you but there must be a paradigm shift before we can resolve problems that are currently causing not just greater poverty but contributing to the very rich getting richer and the very poor getting worse off from what is taking place. If you cannot realize that things are getting worse for both the middle class (that is shrinking) and the poverty class (that is not only growing but suffering more) there really will not be reason (especially in your mind) to make radical changes of improvement. I do not think it is a matter of fixing but rather applying methods that work. The Traveler

I have speculated that outer darkness to which Satan and his followers will end up in for eternity was quite possibly a supper massive black hole. I thought not to put this post in the LDS Gospel Discussion because we are not really discussing gospel doctrine but rather genera speculation. Once the event horizon of a black hole is crossed all we know about blackholes are pure speculation. It is possible that the interior beyond the event horizon is pure light. That all matter and energy exist at the interior as light. I have come up with what I think is better speculation – that outer darkness is a planet specifically created for those that love darkness. Such a planet could possibly exist in what we call a rogue planet occupying interstellar space or even intergalactic space. Such a place would be ideal for those that prefer darkness to light. The Traveler

@Phoenix_person : I will make a very short post to counter your previous posts. But to understand the problems we currently face we must go back in history to the founding of the “Great Society” initiated by President Johnston in 1960. This political theory changed the political landscape for how we deal with poverty and environmental concerns. Using the data then given by liberals (democrats) the initial need has been surpassed by more than 90% of what was needed in tax dollars. This means that all our poverty and environmental issues have corrupted our government and created an exponentially increasing government debt and spending. To prove what I am saying it was agreed that only 2% of the GDP was necessary to implement all the needed Great Society programs - we are currently spending 30%. We know that the current policies are a complete failure because of the data provided by the government that runs these programs (both poverty and the danger to our environment). Poverty and environmental concerns are categorically worse today than before these programs were initiated. And yet the cry of the left is to increase taxes, and the problems will all magically disappear. One definition of insanity is to continue on the same course doing the same things – expecting different results. Before an intelligent discussion can take place, it must be recognized that the current programs are failing and must not be continued. Once we can agree on what is not working - then we can begin to move forward to discuss possible solutions. The Traveler

@askandanswer: I think your questions are good but also misleading. In mathematics (science) there are always initial conditions that with logic will define the output or answer. Another way to look at this is if there are too many unknowns then the output or answer cannot be determined. I will be interested in how other posters will respond concerning your questions but as your questions stand, as stated – I do not think we can logically surmise a conclusion. Thus, we must be able to properly define all the preconditions. With mercy we need to define G-d’s love, compassion, wisdom and the covenant of agency that He has given us. I have pondered how to logically understand G-d and how he deals with mankind (individuals). I will put forth the initial conditions as I think I understand them as follows: First: G-d will not do for mankind what we can do for ourselves. Second: G-d will do for mankind what we cannot do for ourselves. Three: G-d will not do for mankind anything that does not benefit mankind. Four: G-d will do for mankind anything that will benefit mankind. Five: G-d will only do for mankind that which is acceptable to mankind – this means that the individual must understand what will occur (G-d will do) what the outcome will be and that the individual must be in full acceptance of it all. I believe that all five elements must have the same value and force in defining all the preconditions. It is my understanding that all five elements were present in our pre-existence as each individual’s mortal existence was planned and mapped out. This is where and how we can understand G-d’s mercy. Regardless of what happens, we can know and trust that G-d will fulfill his promise that all five elements will be perfectly completed. There will be no action of mercy, love, compassion or wisdom that can or will happen during our mortal probation that does not completely involve all five of the above elements. If anyone has discovered another element or knows why any element I gave does not apply – I would appreciate the opportunity to discover that element with you. Thank you all The Traveler

Dealing with crime is a simple math problem. If a crime is being repeated it is obvious that the associated punishment is insufficient. Rather than focus on crime – perhaps we should consider the criminal. If an individual continues any particular crime (including shoplifting gum) then to change the intent of the criminal, the punishment needs to be increased. We can also take into account survival of the particular individual and determine if they need to be institutionalized for their benefit or offer a better survival opportunity. The Traveler

I think you have missed my most important point. Joy and happiness is not necessarily about keeping the peace. Contrary to some thoughts – there are individuals that find joy in disrupting the peace. I have observed in my self that regardless of whatever an action brings – I will eventually stop doing it if there is no joy or happiness doing it. The trick in life is not doing what is good and right (true or whatever) and not doing what is wrong or bad (false or whatever). The science is that we learn our preferences – they are not innate in us. Preferences are controlled in regions of our cortex. Thus, the trick in life is learning to find and happiness and joy in doing the right thing. If we do not learn to do this, we will become the slave of whoever it is that controls what tempts us. The Traveler

Something a good lawyer ought to consider. There is a story of a husband and wife arguing over a point. The husband puts together a perfect explanation of logic to put forth his point and win the argument. As he begins to unfold his perfect logic his wife stops him and asks. Would you rather be right or happy? This proves the scripture - “Man is that he might have joy.” The Traveler

I will attempt to summarize what I remember of the article. It is very likely that there will be an argument between the husband and wife on how to spend the money which will end in divorce. Winners tend to quit work. The big problem here is that there is no one to spend time with. Old friends must continue working and new friends just are not the same. Another problem is that a lot of money is spent without realizing how much will disappear when taxes come due. The primary problem is that the winners end up isolated losing old friends and family that become displaced and new friends because they are more interested in money than friendship. The Traveler

Interesting – several years ago I read an article that implied that the winners of lotteries have an abnormally high suicide rate. I believe (how I was raised) that gambling is a repressive tax on individuals that struggle with math. I do stand by my initial statement – gambling is a kind of prison and bondage. I believe that the great problem is in understanding what gambling is. Like so many things (including spiritual things) two people can be involved in the same use of money, and one will be an investment and the other will be gambling. One seeking freedom and liberty – the other seeking a easy solution with no responsibility. The Traveler

I think of gambling as a type or kind of bondage or prison. Sort of like slavery but I believe different enough to have its own term. The Traveler

Again, let’s take a step back and think about what is meant by “The L-rd’s Anointed”? I think some get a little confused because they think in terms of singularity rather than plural. There is another term for “The L-rd’s Anointed” that comes to us in a Hebrew term. That term is “Messiah”. The Greek term is “Christ”. I used to love my mathematical text when it would suggest that certain solutions to questions would be left as an “exercise” for the reader. Here some exercise for the reader – Given that your marriage has been sealed in the temple of G-d, “Is the L-rd’s anointed ever present in your home eating meat at our table”. “If the L-rd’s anointed is present – do you ever speak evil of them?” The final question: “Do you believe in Christ?” --- to what extent can you extend this logic? The Traveler

I realize that many think in current terms but most things or how people think are shaped through history and tradition. For example, if I ask what place is most associated with witches – the response is Salem. But what we think of witches has greatly evolved. What was once thought of as witches was pure evil and destruction of civilization through dark arts of curses bringing plagues, drought, war (violence), earthquakes, severe storms or horrific bad luck. Now days witches as somewhat desirable to have around and a favorite dress up for Halloween. The map for this thread has a strange association with states. It is not really what a state is known for but rather what individuals are most likely to look up about the state. It may not be the most important element of the state but rather something that is most likely to get attention associated with that state. You would think gambling is the association with Navada – who would have thought that a type of slavery is what generates more interest about the state. The Traveler

Really? Your home state is Maryland, and you do not understand why it is Catholic? I tried living in Maryland while I was working for the Defense Department (Pax River Navy base) in St Mary’s County. The county was settled by English speaking Catholics that has no place to live in peace in Europe. The initial settlement was slaughtered by Protestants that came to America seeking religious freedom. This nearly started a war in Europe but was averted with the Maryland Toleration Act of 1649 – the first time in history that Traditional Christians passed a law preventing the majority Traditional Christian religion from killing or taking property of non-majority Traditional Christians or heretics. Note that this act did not prevent the killing or taking of property of non-Trinity believing religious individuals or people (like native Americans). I have long pointed to this bit of history that I believe proves (among other historical events) that Traditional Christians had apostatized from the Apostolic Church established by Christ and that the groundwork for a restoration was in the beginning phases of taking place. The Traveler

I believe that sometime in the future that this time (generation) will be known as a time of great paradox. A time, unlike ever before, of an era with incredible access information and yet a time of perhaps the greatest ignorance in human history. The Traveler

I will begin my post by saying that all the posters of this thread have the basic concept all wrong and upside down. Well – that statement could get some attention. Sometimes we look at things within a specific context and we panic because of the only conclusion we can draw in that context. Joseph made some very serious mistakes. He lost several sacred pages of the translation of the Book of Mormon strictly in open rebellion against G-d’s command. What chosen prophet does that? Joseph also got caught up in the Kirtland Safety Society and lost millions of precious dollars to the poverty-stricken fledgling Church. It is not that difficult – if you want to find fault in the “L-rd’s Anointed” it is not that difficult. Lucifer found fault in our Eternal Father in Heaven and divided the most advanced, intelligent and sophisticated society that exists in association to this universe. The Scribes and Pharisees – the most knowledgeable students (and preservers) of sacred scripture found sufficient fault in Jesus of Nazareth to condemn him to death. Any prophet of any time period that has said anything important has been seriously discounted – sometimes even put to death (example Abinadi). The arguments against truth have never found difficulty in criticizing those that bear that truth. It is not uncommon that there is some justification in such criticism. Our G-d knows these things and that opposition is necessary. It is my personal belief that G-d has his servants and covenant Saints in the palm of his hands. He sees where all things come from and where all things lead to. There are many of us multi-generational members that have speculated badly why certain children of G-d were kept from the priesthood and temple covenants because of their lineage. As to polygamy – both the act and purpose was seriously abused by many that should have known better having received the gift of the Holy Ghost. We live in turbulent times – not just physically but spiritually and theologically as well. We have our living prophets, our living G-d and our living Church. The operative concept here is “living”. Included in the concept of living is the revelation of truth. Our living Church has living stake presidents, bishops and many ministering servants – most certainly including our sister Saints. We do not need to rely of the testimony of any one single individual – we have many anointed Saints. More than at any other time in the history of mankind on this earth. The Traveler

First on my list would be the Atonement. His love, compassion and mercy would also be high up there. I would not make a statement somewhat off the cuff and a bit of speculation - Warning this may upset some thinkers. Anciently - among the pagans (in particular the followers of Baal) walking on water was the sign of a g-d or a capability of all g-ds. I has speculated that the epoch of Jesus walking on the water may be a human addition to scripture to attempt to prove the divinity of Christ in worldly terms. I am not discounting Christ or his mission - just that in all my searching, pondering and prayers -- I have never been given spiritual assurance as I have with other testimonies of Christ. If somehow this was demonstrated to not be true - it would not change one bit my belief in Christ and his divine mission. I do believe that all the works of Christ - we can and should become invested and participate in with Christ and in his name. I believe that with the Holy Spirit we can do all things and be a part. We speak of his atonement - I believe it is possible that we can participate with him in the great miracle of atonement. The Traveler

One of the most life changing experiences for me was the military. I grew up loving to hunt. After my military experience, I hardly ever used a firearm, especially for sport. While in the military I excelled in martial arts. The problem is that every move was intended to be lethal. A close friend from the military came to visit while I was attending BYU. He was better than me and the times and circumstances were such that we hurt some fellows quite badly that were recreational martial artists. I do not enjoy watching the sport of martial arts. I would personally prefer to get beat up rather than be triggered for sport or even self defense. Not all see life through the experience of my eyes. I still cycle and ski, but I am an old guy. Every year my abilities decline. Most that I use to ride with and ski with can no longer participate. I try to remain calm during BYU sporting events, but it is difficult for me. The only way that I can guarantee to remain calm is to check out the final score and if BYU won – then I can calmly watch the game and appreciate the efforts from both teams. The Traveler

Obviously, you did not grow up playing church ball in a reck hall. The Traveler

It just seems to me that there is too much vanity in sports. For myself it is difficult to just enjoy (even the sports I participate in) without the pressure or need for competition – even against myself – but it seems worse sitting on the sidelines with no actual input. The Traveler

When it comes to sports, I lack anything close to the spirit of prophecy. I have learned that if you love sports and have a favorite team that brings you happiness when they win – you will spend a lot of your life without happiness. So many things of this generation will bring you disappointment if you put your happiness stock into it. I recommend that those reading my post make a choice to be happy regardless of what reality deals you in the fallen mortal existence. Whatever your experiences are in life – it will only be bearable and seam worth it, if you are happy. The Traveler