Traveler

I suspected that the server for the website was hacked. When I attempted to connect I received a screen indicating that I had been banned. Since I am able to post at this point – I assume that either the hack banned me or cleared me. 😁 The Traveler

My good and dear friend, I think you missed the most critical point. Consider carefully your words: “most of us would be less than thrilled to be executed for a crime we didn’t commit.” This indeed was the very redeeming act of Christ in behalf of all humanity. Jesus said that there is no great love than that love that inspires a person to give their life for the benefit of others. The last act of a disciple of Christ should mirror the Christ that we follow – a life dedicated (including its passing) for the greater good and benefit of others. The Traveler

I am glad that Christ had the attitude different than most. The Traveler

I agree with @Vort . Many argue that any death penalty is too harsh and a social pariah. A particular argument that I have encountered is that it would be better to free 99 murders than to mistakenly put to death one innocent. My response to that argument is that I would rather be the one innocent unjustly put to death than to ever even back the idea of releasing 99 murders into a society – with them thinking or realizing that they can and did get away with murder. The Traveler

I do not think this is just an Asia tradition. This was strongly a part of my Scandinavian LDS pioneer upbringing. I was constantly reminded that my behavior reflected on my parents, grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles and especially on my siblings. After college, part of the reason I took a job with the Defense Department on the East Coast was to get away from being my father’s son, the brother of my siblings, and the relative to so many. I dearly longed to be known by my own name. A great epiphany occurred when my parents came to visit me and the local dignitaries, upon meeting my parents would say, “So you are the parents of ‘The Traveler’ – it is an honor and a pleasure to meet you.” It was the first time I felt I belonged in my family. The epiphany is – that not only will children bring honor or shame to parents – the honor or shame is reciprocal. That parents (family) will bring honor or shame to their children. All of this has deep roots in the words of a prophet (which I forget) that said something along the line that the greatest thing or gift a father can give his children is to love and honor their mother. Similar for the mother – the greatest gift a mother can give her children is to love and honor their father. I have come to believe that the greatest shame of all eternity is to break this traditional (temporal or spiritual) bond of honor, trust and love of family. The Traveler

Sorry - if spell check does not catch it I never will. Thanks for the fix. The Traveler

Funny you would make that reference. I love Asiah and spent time working there. I admit to culture shock from my family heritage. I also have a personal theory about the role of Asians (gentiles) in the last-days. The Traveler

@mirkwood may be a better source but it is my understanding that government agents that are not members of the Church can enter the temples during emergencies and other official conditions. I am aware that first responders have on occasion entered temples. Heart attacks are not all that unusual at temples. As I understand, first responders will be escorted while performing their legal functions. I have also heard stories of individuals that have broken into temples and the authorities are notified. That police have made arrests in temples without the necessity of a warrant. Having been in China – having a temple there is not as likely to have the problems some have suggested. Local cities are more likely to be intrusive than the central governments. If the church has central approval there should not be significant problems. The Traveler

I have mentioned before that I am not the high achiever as my other siblings. A week ago, we got together at Lake Palisades near Aften Wyoming. Two of my siblings have cabins in the area. Over the weekend we woke up to temperatures of 28 degrees below zero. For fun we would toss hot water in the air and watch it disappear. My youngest brother maintains a weather station at his cabin. Though the cold is not an all-time record – this is a colder than normal year (according to my brother). The Traveler

My concern about autogyenphilia and other forms of abuse comes from the SanJose State volleyball team that was forced to share a dressing room. Also, Riley Gaines said she was forced to change in the same room with an aroused male swimmer. I have not found any official statement from the trans community that trans men should not be competing in women’s sports nor am I aware or efforts to keep all biological women safe. What I hear is that 10 trans should not be a problem even if thousands of biological women are inconvenienced. Does Riley Gaines have an accepted voice among your friends? You are correct, porn affects and warps everyone it touches – the more it touches the greater the problem. Also, I understand that not all individuals are capable of reproducing. Those that are capable but learn to disdain actual reproductive behavior are not sexually helpful or beneficial in an intelligent society. I do believe in agency but I do not believe in corrupting (educating LGBTQ+) children (under age 25) that have not developed the brain executive functions to discern what they learn. The problem is that children taught beneficial sexual behavior are extremely unlikely to behave otherwise. With very rare exception – it is my understanding that those involved with LGBTQ+ behaviors acquired a propensity in their youth – often using the argument that G-d made them that way. The Traveler

There is a known condition (autogynephilia) where a male becomes sexually aroused and stimulated when dressing and acting as a female. This condition can also extend into watching females dress or use bathroom facilities (the essence of what drives peeping toms and the desire to put cameras in women’s restrooms). For some reason this condition is not so prevalent with same sex driven individuals to place cameras in men’s restrooms. I personally believe that autogyenphilia is driven by pornography – though I have no references to prove it. From my personal experiences with those that are involved in same sex attractions – there is a background of pornography. I believe this has input for all LGBTQ+ behaviors. The point here is that any male that is autogynephilic should never be allowed in a woman’s bathroom, dressing room, woman’s sport or any place exclusively for women. Obviously, women that observe aroused men in private women places are threatened. Men pretending to be women in order to satisfy their autogyenphilia are a threat and until the trans community is willing to report offenders, we must assume complicity. The Traveler

I do not understand this kind of thinking. Perhaps it may be possible some day but not with current science and technology. One can no more make a woman by altering a man than it is possible to make a human by altering (carving) a tree. We can fiddle with some attributes and change appearances, but the basic genetics will remain. We can pretend anything we want but it does not make it so. By the very definition of reality verses pretense – what we pretend is nothing more than fantasy – reality is beyond pretense. Some may think that they can pretend reality – I believe that kind of thinking is the very definition of mental instability and incompetency. The Traveler

Science seems to be greatly misunderstood by certain elements in our upcoming generation. For your benefit I will be specific. All preferences are controlled and monitored by and through the cortex areas of the brain – this includes sexual preferences. Much of the brain’s operations have been mapped for decades and yet, despite all the actual science, the American Psychiatric Association in 1973 declared that same sex relations were not an “mental condition”. This was done without a single scientific reference. It was this declaration upon which it was determined that (by congressional) law that sexual preferences were not to be treated. It has long been proven through science research that the cortex oversees learned behaviors – much of this research goes all the way back to Pavlov’s dog and the research done by Skinner. Not only do we know (scientifically) that the cortex behaviors are learned but also that the executive functions of the cortex are not fully developed until age 25. This means that all preferences or any behaviors controlled by the cortex are not innate and learned but also that an individual is incapable of exercising executive functions to determine on their own. I honestly think the above paragraph is a bunch of bunk. There has never been a time on this planet when wealth was more evenly spread and available to the populus than this current modern era – especially here in the USA (Where even the poor on welfare live better – with better amenities and health care than the Pharaohs of Egypt) – and as well in other western cultures. The same is true of racism. The western civilizations are more open to race than any historical civilization or any where else. As far as materialism – that is a construct of all civilization. Eliminate materialism and you will eliminate civilization. As for capitalism – there are no records of any civilization more advanced and freer. This does not mean that there are no quarks or improvements to be incorporated into capitalism. I have posted previously that compound interest is the number 1 division of economic class (all class division?) in today’s society – and compound interest is a left-over construct of something invented long before any experiments in capitalism. I believe we can solve 95% of our your concerns with capitalism by eliminating compound interest. And regardless of what system you may favor as long as there is any employment of compound interest, the result will be just as bad or much worse – there will be no improvement. The Traveler

The fallen state of mortality is also a state of misery. Yet few are willing to give up this life of misery just because they do not know that much about joy - especially the joys of living according to the laws, ordinances and covenants of G-d. I do enjoy our conversations - but before you consider certain extensions of thought – those that are willing to sacrifice a broken heart and contrite spirit understand that we will remain miserable until the resurrection. It is by faith in Christ and the joy of resurrection that we can experience parts of joy and have faith in the fullness of joy. The Traveler

Science (scientific data) clearly indicates that preferences (including sexual preferences) are learned or acquired (not innate). The scientific understanding (definition) of intelligence is the ability to learn and alter projected outcomes. One could say that many species become extinct because of their inability to adapt to changing circumstances. I am some what dumfounded that as much as modern society has taught us and as intelligent as we think we are about evolution and survival of the fittest that there is a growing number of individuals hell bent on ending their own genetic intelligence by refusing to pass their genetics on to a next generation to accommodate their momentary pleasure. The essence of personal genetic suicide. I am also puzzled by those that so disdain the genetics of those committing genetic suicide that they feel inclined to encourage them. But then, perhaps it is best to eliminate certain such intelligence from the gene pool? The Traveler

I have reason to believe that it is not unlikely for a person to die and not realize that they have passed on. As we begin to navigate our next estate, we will learn through the experience what has happened to us. I am quite sure that our next estate is not so different from our current mortal estate that we will immediately realize much of anything. I believe it is possible that we will recognize others that have preceded us in death that will help in the transition and will explain many helpful things. I am also of the impression that Jesus, as a resurrected glorified being, is not a resident of our next spiritual existence. The Traveler

Greetings @Ironhold : I appreciate your input. I also go out of my way to read @Vort ‘s posts. I believe that there is no such thing as a handicap – mentally or physically. I believe we each come into this life with a purpose and destiny. We are preparing to be G-ds. To highlight what I am referencing, I would point to the final page of the Book of Mormon. Many LDS think all that this last chapter and words can be summarized in the first few verses ending with verse 5. These verses are certainly a favorite of missionaries but there is, what I believe, is a greater gem starting with verse 6 and continuing to the very end of the Book of Mormon. Note how often the phrase “I would exhort you” is used. Note that we all are “gifted”. We are all expert and exceptionally gifted and belong to an advanced and gifted class – not just to that which is here on this planet of earth but in the eternities of this vast universe. We humans are the elites of the universe. Note that everyone is gifted with spiritual gifts and that everyone can benefit from each and every gift that every individual in humanity is given. Finally note how one becomes “perfected” in Christ. There is a saying that, “No one is perfect”. This is not true and it denies the Christ through who all things are made perfect through His grace by being “sanctified” in Christ through repentance and remission of our sins (verse 33). I submit that the greatest desirable genius gift is available to all that seek perfection in Christ. The Traveler

I grew up in a family of high achievers. My father was a workaholic. My oldest brother is a genius with a photographic memory. I am the least achiever of my family; I thought every family was like mine but discovered that my family was extremely rare. In most families I would be considered an overachiever. There were a few things I learned that I am thinking I ought to pass on. If something is not worth doing well – it is not worth doing. It is better to do a few things extremely well than to do a mountain of things poorly. Consider the scripture Mosiah 4:27 My last suggestion is that at the beginning of each day – go in prayer before your G-d present a detailed plan to accomplish all you need to do and how you plan to accomplish everything. Ask for His help and assistance. At the end of each day go again to your G-d in prayer with a detailed report of what you did. If something was undone – present it. If something was not done well – report it and explain why. For all the things that were completed – explain it and how you felt you did (good, well, okay, barely or poorly). As you do this G-d will inspire you to prioritize your next day. It may happen that there are days that you need to prioritize your work, other days your church callings, other days your family and some days things for you. We see such prioritizing of things in the Book of Mormon. There may be times of war where you do not even see your family for extended periods, even with your family your single highest priority. I believe it is important to not go through life alone. Consult often with your wife and keep her in the loop. Shair your sacrifices, efforts, dreams and accomplishments together. If you feel so, consult with your priesthood leaders (ministers, quorum members, quorum leaders, bishop and perhaps even Stake leaders.) The Traveler

I can say in all honesty that I do not know the purposes of Seer Stones or the Urim and Thummim nor do I have understanding of their differences. I have personally known a seer and asked them – they did not give me an answer. I suspect and speculate that both the Seer Stone and Urim and Thummim were used at different times and for different reasons to complete the translation of the Book of Mormon. I speculate that it is somewhat like a screwdriver and pliers. Each have their purpose. The Urim and Thummim was specifically provided for the translation of the Book of Mormon. Who know what else it is capable of providing? Seer Stones have their own purpose and are given for many things – including things related to scripture as well as covenants, ordinances and laws. Another sacred instrument was the Liahona. Though these devices operated as tools for various purposes – they all are subject to operation through covenant. I have speculated that as a seer becomes experienced in their craft and unique covenant – that such devices tend to become unnecessary. The Traveler

Greetings @Gecko45 . Welcome to the forum. I am excited about your post and hope to see many more – in addition, I am looking forward to your input on a great range of other topics. I also thank you for fulfilling an honorable mission. Let’s take a look at your questions. I do not know that I can answer all your concerns, but I will share my understandings. Question 1. I have pondered the building of the temple in Jerusalem. I cannot say that I know how this will come about. I speculate that among the possibilities there is a possibility that Melchizedek (the king of Salem) that like the city of Enoch was taken up (translated) to a higher state and will return according to prophesy as part of the reign of the Messiah. Including the prophesied temple as recorded in Ezekiel. Regardless, the temple in Jerusalem will be built by the command of G-d when He sees fit to fulfill his prophecy. If we speculate how this is possible – please realize that speculation is not revelation – though it can be an engine of revelation. Question 2. It is my understanding that all the house of Israel will go through great difficulties in the “last days” prior to the return of the Messiah. The prophecies concerning the gathering of Israel do indeed include the Jews. Jesus warned that those that covenant with G-d will be at odds with the world. Though there has been a “Great Apostasy” the Jews do maintain some roots of their covenants (as prophesied in the Book of Mormon – fig tree). I personally believe that historically the Jews have better maintained their laws, ordinances and covenant much better than Traditional Christians. Question 3. I believe that those that turn from covenants are far more children of darkness than the world in general that have not covenanted with G-d. Indeed, even in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it has been the apostates that have sought the greatest harm against the covenant children of G-d. It was the LDS apostates that most sought and triggered the expulsion of the LDS from Kirkland, Missouri and Nauvoo. The extermination order of Missouri was supported mostly by apostate LDS. I have personal theories about why those most knowledgeable of the things of G-d are also the most sought after by Satan and his angles of darkness. I believe this is in part because all things evil are a corrupted copy of all things righteous and the order of G-d. I would say that you ought not to trouble yourself about those that corrupt the laws, ordinances and covenants of G-d. Seek first the laws, ordinances and covenants of G-d and all things will be given as needed. The Traveler

I do not understand your point – if something fits why do you imply it had to be forced in order to fit? I pointed this out because I believe it is an example of an Egyptian literary format. There are hundreds of Egyptian influences in the texts of the Book of Mormon – all of which were not known in our modern era when Joseph Smith Jr. provided a translation of the plates. There are also ancient Hebrew literary formats that were unrecognized at that time. If you have researched the classic Egyptian Colophon and you think there is not a good fit – would you please state, why? I would be interested in how you arrived at such a conclusion. The Traveler

It does not manner what is going on anywhere else – the critical point concerns what is the circumstance where we are standing. This discussion somewhat proves my very point. There are many excuses and diversions. Truth is simple or difficult all in what we want to make of it. The Traveler

I can only speak for myself. I cannot speak for anything that someone else says they have experienced. My first spiritual encounter and revelation came when I was 8 years old. In all my years since I have never encountered anything spiritual that has been contradictory or confusing in relation to any other spiritual experience I have ever had. All my doubts, misunderstandings, confusion and misdirection have always been of my own fault and making. I am also keenly aware that there are dark spirits that intend to influence our understanding of just about everything. Though it seems obvious to me that there are great and unmistakable differences between those spirits of light verses those of darkness, never-the-less some question what I find obvious. I am unable to explain anything that is spiritual to anyone that cannot distinguish spiritual things for themselves. I have attempted logic only to discover that logic is often only what someone wants it to be. I am convinced that if someone wants to believe that it is midnight – I can be standing in the bright light of noon day and they will still declare it midnight while they are squinting and hiding their eyes. The Traveler

My father was an insurance agent. I was taught well. I have earthquake insurance on my home. The costs for insurance can vary depending on where in the Salt Lake Valley one lives – also the lost risk purchased. I personally only cover for catastrophic losses with the most deductible allowed. I do not purchase replacement reimbursement coverage. I purchase a specific amount for a total loss. I also maintain salvage rights. I have my reasons for what I purchase and realize that very few understand or desire minimum risk-based insurance coverage. As a side note, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is self-insured for their structures. Something else very few realize is that purchasing for loss due to war or civil uprising is not offered anywhere. Pending on one’s policy - loss because of civil protests is a fringe coverage that insurance companies can deny depending on circumstance. This kind of upsets me a bit because this is not clearly understood. I am of the mind that a property owner in a free country should have the right to protect their property with lethal force. I also think more of our society would agree with me if they understood how their state government can affect their insurance coverage. The Traveler

I do not know how the rest of you feel but listening to the news (whatever channel or political favor) – it sure does not seem that anybody knows anything worthwhile or accurate to say. Sometimes I think that insurance companies seem to know the most about what is going on and act accordingly. State Farm is the largest home insurer in the nation and pulled out of doing business in California last July. They still have some homes insured because the paid term (year) has not expired. Other insurers have pulled out as well claiming that the risk is too high for allowed premiums regulated through the California insurance commission. I understand that Florida has a similar insurance problem - Perhaps @LDSGator can give us some insights concerning Florida. I understand that many do not like insurance companies and think that insurance make too much profit. However, companies like State Farm are Mutuals and profits are regulated similar (but not so much) to utilities. Mutuals must provide risk information – open to the public. The Traveler