Traveler

A note – I am a retired engineer and scientist in the field of automation, robotics and artificial intelligence.  Most everything I have studied concerning the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints resonates with me as well.  There are some things that initially seemed out of place or not quite right but over time have proven to be exactly spot on and prophetic.   The strongest piece of evidence for me has been the Book of Mormon.  If I were to highlight any possible contrary element it would be a few members that have overrated themselves.  But even considering such members and compared to any other organization – there is no other institution on earth I personally trust more.  Even the most enlightened and intelligent institution in the universe (heaven) produced an abundance of (though very intelligent individuals) that way overrated themselves as well.   Pride is such an enemy and hindrance to peace and unity of society.
 
The Traveler

Good for you, though I'm very sorry for the tragic route you've taken. Ftr, I'm talking about the parents who smile benignly as their little children run screaming through the aisles.

I have a daughter that left the Church because she has concluded that women are 2nd class citizens within the society of Latter-day Saints.  For a number of years this controversy caused divisions (sometimes angry exchanges) within our family and particularly between myself and my daughter.  Over the years I have come to the conclusion that angry exchanges are harmful to both myself and my daughter so for a while I avoided such topics.  Currently, I am able to discuss things without becoming angry or responding to her anger and things have gotten much better --- but there is another side to all this.  Her 4 children (my grandchildren) have continually drifted and have become quite confused over morals.  For a while the grandkids would attend church with us when we visited, or they visited us.  It has been a long time since they have chosen not to go with us to church.
It was decided by my daughter and her husband that kids should figure out their own moral directions and religious connections.  This has been most difficult for the kids and as they are reaching adulthood in this confusing world they have not done well.  Two of the children have become lost and developed addictions.   The addictions have resulted in severe mental illness issues to the point that it is doubtful that they will ever be able to ever live on their own without some assistance.   Sadly, daughter is coming to her senses and realizing that leaving the church and the moral mooring living standards bring – is the primary factor in her children succumbing to damaging temptations – just not enough yet to return to protections of living by covenant.
 It is important that each person develop their own faith in G-d but if a person determines to become an agent unto themselves – it is not just their lives that are affected.  It is not uncommon for innocent children (or others) to suffer consequences sometimes for many generations.  With such damage I marvel that the atonement of Christ is able to unravel whatever damage we can do to ourselves and others.
 
The Traveler

Thank you all. I'm hoping to get a little theological insight and exposure to some different views. So far everything that I have researched resonates with me much more than other denominations but my more importantly, my most powerful experience with feeling the spirit came when I was listening to a sermon? at General conference I believe by president? Nelson.

Greetings!
 
Investigator here..

I have a daughter that left the Church because she has concluded that women are 2nd class citizens within the society of Latter-day Saints.  For a number of years this controversy caused divisions (sometimes angry exchanges) within our family and particularly between myself and my daughter.  Over the years I have come to the conclusion that angry exchanges are harmful to both myself and my daughter so for a while I avoided such topics.  Currently, I am able to discuss things without becoming angry or responding to her anger and things have gotten much better --- but there is another side to all this.  Her 4 children (my grandchildren) have continually drifted and have become quite confused over morals.  For a while the grandkids would attend church with us when we visited, or they visited us.  It has been a long time since they have chosen not to go with us to church.
It was decided by my daughter and her husband that kids should figure out their own moral directions and religious connections.  This has been most difficult for the kids and as they are reaching adulthood in this confusing world they have not done well.  Two of the children have become lost and developed addictions.   The addictions have resulted in severe mental illness issues to the point that it is doubtful that they will ever be able to ever live on their own without some assistance.   Sadly, daughter is coming to her senses and realizing that leaving the church and the moral mooring living standards bring – is the primary factor in her children succumbing to damaging temptations – just not enough yet to return to protections of living by covenant.
 It is important that each person develop their own faith in G-d but if a person determines to become an agent unto themselves – it is not just their lives that are affected.  It is not uncommon for innocent children (or others) to suffer consequences sometimes for many generations.  With such damage I marvel that the atonement of Christ is able to unravel whatever damage we can do to ourselves and others.
 
The Traveler

In addition to a somewhat religious Easter message, I'm going to re-run a column I did a bit back explaining the concept of "Easter Eggs" in media (that is, hidden items in entertainment media that are meant to amuse the audience). 

That’s a really great idea. It shows how much the church values families. 

Thank you for your post.  Some thoughts about the person Joshua.  This is the same name by which Jesus was known.  Jesus being the Greek translation of Joshua.  Shortly after Joshua succeeded following Moses, he took the “children of Israel” down to the river Jordan and washed them before crossing the Jordan river over into Palestine.  The nature of the Jordan river as it approaches the Dead Sea is what we call a meandering river – which means that as the river erodes the landscape its course can change slightly.  It is interesting to note that when Jesus came to the river Jordan to be baptized (washed?) of John it was at the same place that Joshua washed Israel and crossed that river on dry ground.
I appreciate your notion that the ancient epochs of faith are prophetic in nature to have relevance for what is to come (even in our day and time).  The Hebrew word “Kippur” had no English equivalent so when Tyndale attempted to translate the first English Bible, he coined the word “Atonement”.  Because he portended to make up a sacred word is one of the primary reasons he was burned at the stake for heresy.   The word “Kippur” has two distinct parts to its meaning and purpose.  The first is a redemption that is paid by G-d for sins.  It is my understanding that this redemption does not supersede the responsibility of the individual for their crimes of sin except to pay for that which the individual is unable.  The second part is purification to change or remove that which is dross so that whch remains is pure and without flaw.  This insinuates to me that the Atonement of Christ is not completed in us until we (complete repentance and) are pure (perfect).  In scripture this is often spoken of as complete or perfect – which can only be concluded through the completion of the first 4 principles of the Gospel of Christ. 
I believe there is symbolism in Joshua leading Israel into the “Promise Land” that has great meaning for the Latter-day Saints preparing (themselves and Zion) for the Messiah and His Millennial Reign.
 
The Traveler

As we journey through the rich tapestry of biblical narratives, the books of Joshua and Judges offer profound lessons on leadership, faith, courage, and the complexities of human nature. This journey, spanning the conquest of Canaan to the cyclical rise and fall of Israel's fidelity to God, encapsulates themes that resonate deeply with our contemporary quest for meaning and purpose.
Leadership Rooted in Faith: The Legacy of Joshua
Joshua's ascent to leadership after Moses presents a compelling study of courage rooted in unwavering faith. In Joshua 1:9, we are reminded, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." This divine assurance highlights a central theme in Joshua's leadership: the imperative of trusting in God's presence and promises, even in the face of formidable challenges. As Joshua led Israel to cross the Jordan and conquer Jericho, his actions underscored the power of faith to transform obstacles into stepping stones toward fulfilling God's promises.
This narrative invites reflection on our own lives. How often do we face our 'Jordans' and 'Jerichos,' overwhelmed by their impossibility? Joshua's story teaches us that courage, anchored in faith, is not the absence of fear but the conviction to act in spite of it, trusting in God's guidance and provision.
The Cycles of Judges: A Mirror to Our Flaws and Faith
Transitioning from Joshua's unified conquest to the tumultuous period of the Judges, we encounter a stark portrayal of Israel's cyclical pattern of apostasy, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. Judges like Deborah, Gideon, and Samson emerge not just as leaders but as complex characters who navigate their flaws and faith in times of national crisis. Through their stories, we see how God uses imperfect individuals to accomplish His purposes, offering hope that our imperfections do not disqualify us from being instruments of His will.
However, the Book of Judges also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of forgetting God in times of peace and prosperity. The Israelites' recurrent departure from God's commandments, leading to suffering and subjugation, reflects a timeless human tendency to drift from our foundational values and beliefs when not faced with immediate challenges.
Application for Today: Lessons on Faith and Leadership
The narratives of Joshua and Judges are far from ancient relics; they are vibrant, living texts that speak into our contemporary experiences. They challenge us to consider the quality of our faith and leadership. Are we, like Joshua, cultivating courage through our reliance on God, stepping into our calling with faith? Or do we find ourselves in the cyclical patterns depicted in Judges, oscillating between faithfulness and forgetfulness?
As we reflect on these questions, these biblical books invite us to a deeper engagement with our faith journey. They encourage us to lead lives marked by courage, faithfulness, and a constant remembrance of God's presence and promises.
In our personal 'battles' and 'judgeships,' let us draw inspiration from Joshua's courage and the resilience of the Judges, aiming for a faith that does not waver in the face of trials and a leadership that is always aligned with God's will. May we strive to break the cycles of forgetfulness by anchoring our lives in the steadfast love and faithfulness of God, remembering that, like Israel, we are called to a covenant relationship with Him, marked by obedience, trust, and unwavering faith.
As we navigate our contemporary landscape with its unique challenges and opportunities, the timeless lessons from Joshua and Judges remain a beacon of hope and guidance, reminding us of the transformative power of faith and the importance of leadership rooted in divine trust.

I relate to Enos and his struggle.  Growing up in a righteous home well rooted in the gospel of Christ – I believed my parents, attended church, sought understanding and received conformations.  As I grew towards adulthood and became aware of this universe of uncertainty and my own inability to reconcile seeming contradictions, I began to wonder what it was I seemed to be missing.  Not so much doubts that what I believed was wrong – just that like the rich young man that came to Jesus – I wondered what it was that I was missing.
I had spent time in the army during the Vietnam conflict and lost friends in that war.  I had also served a mission but felt that I had been sent home at the end of my allotted time leaving critical things undone.  There was a young lady that had waited faithfully for me to complete my mission, writing to me almost every week.  I went out with her once on a date and could not connect taking her home early.  I had a major conflict with a professor (that within a year was fired) and decided to drop out of college.  I felt that the girls I met and attempted to date were seriously spiritually flawed.
I had a companion from my mission that was a native American.  I discussed with him my spiritual disconnect.  He knew me from our experiences together and knew I was raised hunting for part of the food I ate and convinced me to take time off and go on a spiritual quest similar to Enos, Moses and Christ.   I took a blanket, rope, knife, a coat, Book of Mormon and the clothes on my back and walked away from civilization into the desert of central Utah – living on the land as a 40 day fast.
Just over 20 days into my experience I came across a fellow on a prison release program that had become lost and was in serious trouble.  He had not eaten for a few days and has blisters, bleeding and was unable to walk without assistance and was more than twice my size.  It took over two days to get him out and to safety and there was a time I did not think we would make it but were saved by a miracle.  I thought that my spiritual efforts had been ruined.  My personal Enos wilderness experience failed – or so I thought.  After a few more weeks I left my wilderness without the spiritual manifestation I expected.  I had a spiritual experience in my youth, somewhat similar to young Joseph Smith and believed that I could reconnect.  But it did not happen as I expected.  I came to realize that spiritual experience come through personalizing one’s covenants.  The meaning and purpose of spiritual experiences is to galvanize one’s covenants.
As we keep our covenants through faith and dedication the spirit strengthens that faith and opens greater spiritual possibilities.  My time in the wilderness has become one of my greatest strengths leading me through life – reminding me of many things I was given during my quest and reminding me to remain faithful to covenants.  It is my understanding that Enos’s life was not fixed through his wilderness experience but rather he came to a understanding of how his purpose in life is fixed through divine covenant that he had already made but not completed.
 
The Traveler

I relate to Enos and his struggle.  Growing up in a righteous home well rooted in the gospel of Christ – I believed my parents, attended church, sought understanding and received conformations.  As I grew towards adulthood and became aware of this universe of uncertainty and my own inability to reconcile seeming contradictions, I began to wonder what it was I seemed to be missing.  Not so much doubts that what I believed was wrong – just that like the rich young man that came to Jesus – I wondered what it was that I was missing.
I had spent time in the army during the Vietnam conflict and lost friends in that war.  I had also served a mission but felt that I had been sent home at the end of my allotted time leaving critical things undone.  There was a young lady that had waited faithfully for me to complete my mission, writing to me almost every week.  I went out with her once on a date and could not connect taking her home early.  I had a major conflict with a professor (that within a year was fired) and decided to drop out of college.  I felt that the girls I met and attempted to date were seriously spiritually flawed.
I had a companion from my mission that was a native American.  I discussed with him my spiritual disconnect.  He knew me from our experiences together and knew I was raised hunting for part of the food I ate and convinced me to take time off and go on a spiritual quest similar to Enos, Moses and Christ.   I took a blanket, rope, knife, a coat, Book of Mormon and the clothes on my back and walked away from civilization into the desert of central Utah – living on the land as a 40 day fast.
Just over 20 days into my experience I came across a fellow on a prison release program that had become lost and was in serious trouble.  He had not eaten for a few days and has blisters, bleeding and was unable to walk without assistance and was more than twice my size.  It took over two days to get him out and to safety and there was a time I did not think we would make it but were saved by a miracle.  I thought that my spiritual efforts had been ruined.  My personal Enos wilderness experience failed – or so I thought.  After a few more weeks I left my wilderness without the spiritual manifestation I expected.  I had a spiritual experience in my youth, somewhat similar to young Joseph Smith and believed that I could reconnect.  But it did not happen as I expected.  I came to realize that spiritual experience come through personalizing one’s covenants.  The meaning and purpose of spiritual experiences is to galvanize one’s covenants.
As we keep our covenants through faith and dedication the spirit strengthens that faith and opens greater spiritual possibilities.  My time in the wilderness has become one of my greatest strengths leading me through life – reminding me of many things I was given during my quest and reminding me to remain faithful to covenants.  It is my understanding that Enos’s life was not fixed through his wilderness experience but rather he came to a understanding of how his purpose in life is fixed through divine covenant that he had already made but not completed.
 
The Traveler

To echo what @Traveler stated above, up until recently (and possibly still today in some locations) the Ruler of a Nation and certain individuals under them would be counted as the same individual in some instances.
In some Middle Eastern Cultures slavery was common.  There were slaves that were your right hand of power and control (probably somewhat like what Joseph was in Egypt).  These slaves were seen as basically part of you.  They were extensions of your voice and will.  Whatever they said was what YOU were saying.  To defy them was to defy YOU.  When they came, they would be seen as YOU in the flesh and treated as such.  For all intents and purposes, unless you were together, they would be seen as you in many instances (obviously NOT YOU, but also because of their position to act in your place, basically as you). 
In this dynamic we see some classes of slaves as a HIGHER class in society than freemen.  This is because the slaves reported directly to the ruler and as such, were held in higher esteem than those who were not part of this slave class. 
This was most often seen with slaves (as they were owned totally by their master and as such, when loyal, were seen as an extension of that master.  A slave could be killed at whim if they disobeyed or did what their master did not desire...whereas a free servant was not so easily done away with), however, on occasion it could also be seen as done with a servant as well.
On occasion this is also done with Dynastic rulership where the Son is considered an extension of the ruler. 
Not entirely the same, but a similar vein could be seen with Young King Henry who was crowned King under his father King Henry II.  He was King, but his father had the reins of power.  Now, he didn't have as close or as good a relationship as those I spoke of above, but when he was acting in line with his father's wishes, the easiest way for people to talk about them and who they were differently was relating in a way such as one was the king and the other was the young king.  (Interestingly enough, as Young King Henry died before his father, he is not counted among the Kingly line of Kings of England).

We need to realize that the context of this scripture is deeply rooted in the Hebrew culture and language even though the text is written in Reformed Egyptian.   From the context of near Eastern culture, we learn that the preferred styles of government were patterned after their ancient understanding that the government of Heaven was properly called a “Kingdom”.  That the kingdom of Heaven was ruled by a supreme Suzerain.  From near Eastern kingdoms often had levels of citizenship.   Only the “First Born” (Meaning the most noble or highest rank of citizens fell under the direct relationship with the Suzerain.  As a side note here, these high citizens had a unique name by which they addressed the Suzerain that no one else was allowed to use.  There are many references in scripture about the first-born citizens.  One reference is referenced with the final miracle of Moses when obtaining the deliverance of the Israelites.
Other classes of Citizens were under the jurisdiction of what was called the Servant Vassel.   According to the law of the kingdom the Servant Vassel was said to have inherited all that the Suzerain had in dealing with their Jurisdiction within the Kingdom.  As such they claimed to be one Suzerain or one with the Suzerain.  Often, they would speak to their jurisdiction in the first person as the Suzerain.  Under this law of a Kingdom, it was said that there was one Suzerain.  The Hebrew word to designate “one” is ehad.  This is the same Hebrew word that designates that a man and a woman become one flesh when married according to G-d’s law.  The Hebrew word that designates a unique single individual is yahed.  Whenever Hebrew scripture referenced the “oneness” of G-d the word ehad is always used.  There is no reference – ever – that Hebrew scripture uses the term yahed in referencing one G-d.
When the fall of man (Adam and Eve) took place all of the covenant spirit children of the Father (Suzerain of Heaven) became fallen or exiled citizens of Heaven and therefore were under the jurisdiction of a Servant Vassel that was the Messiah or Christ that was anciently known as Jehovah and the man Jesus of Nazareth.
When the Apostles chosen by Jesus to oversee the kingdom of G-d (church) on earth there were lost to the Church there was a shift in the stylized government of the church.  This shift patterned the church structure after the government of Rome.  To justify this gross alteration a counsel met and created the doctrine of the “Trinity” that was forced on “Christians” under penalty of death and it has remained ever since.  
Perhaps the best witness in scripture of the proper concept of oneness is in the Gospel of John chapter 17 when Jesus prays in Gethsemane as part of his Atonement that those that believe on him (as the Servant Vassel to the Suzerain) would become one with the Father in the same manner that He is one with the Father.  Obviously meaning that those that believe in Christ will no longer be exiled but full citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven as Servant Vassals of the Father.  I would note that in John chapter 10 that when Jesus said he was one with the Father – the Jews clearly understood that Jesus was referring to himself as G-d and that is why they intended to put Jesus to death.  Many Christians claim that they are one with G-d in one breath but then in the next breath claim there is only one (yahed) G-d and that the Trinity doctrine is valid.  Obviously, they do not know what they are saying.
 
The Traveler

We need to realize that the context of this scripture is deeply rooted in the Hebrew culture and language even though the text is written in Reformed Egyptian.   From the context of near Eastern culture, we learn that the preferred styles of government were patterned after their ancient understanding that the government of Heaven was properly called a “Kingdom”.  That the kingdom of Heaven was ruled by a supreme Suzerain.  From near Eastern kingdoms often had levels of citizenship.   Only the “First Born” (Meaning the most noble or highest rank of citizens fell under the direct relationship with the Suzerain.  As a side note here, these high citizens had a unique name by which they addressed the Suzerain that no one else was allowed to use.  There are many references in scripture about the first-born citizens.  One reference is referenced with the final miracle of Moses when obtaining the deliverance of the Israelites.
Other classes of Citizens were under the jurisdiction of what was called the Servant Vassel.   According to the law of the kingdom the Servant Vassel was said to have inherited all that the Suzerain had in dealing with their Jurisdiction within the Kingdom.  As such they claimed to be one Suzerain or one with the Suzerain.  Often, they would speak to their jurisdiction in the first person as the Suzerain.  Under this law of a Kingdom, it was said that there was one Suzerain.  The Hebrew word to designate “one” is ehad.  This is the same Hebrew word that designates that a man and a woman become one flesh when married according to G-d’s law.  The Hebrew word that designates a unique single individual is yahed.  Whenever Hebrew scripture referenced the “oneness” of G-d the word ehad is always used.  There is no reference – ever – that Hebrew scripture uses the term yahed in referencing one G-d.
When the fall of man (Adam and Eve) took place all of the covenant spirit children of the Father (Suzerain of Heaven) became fallen or exiled citizens of Heaven and therefore were under the jurisdiction of a Servant Vassel that was the Messiah or Christ that was anciently known as Jehovah and the man Jesus of Nazareth.
When the Apostles chosen by Jesus to oversee the kingdom of G-d (church) on earth there were lost to the Church there was a shift in the stylized government of the church.  This shift patterned the church structure after the government of Rome.  To justify this gross alteration a counsel met and created the doctrine of the “Trinity” that was forced on “Christians” under penalty of death and it has remained ever since.  
Perhaps the best witness in scripture of the proper concept of oneness is in the Gospel of John chapter 17 when Jesus prays in Gethsemane as part of his Atonement that those that believe on him (as the Servant Vassel to the Suzerain) would become one with the Father in the same manner that He is one with the Father.  Obviously meaning that those that believe in Christ will no longer be exiled but full citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven as Servant Vassals of the Father.  I would note that in John chapter 10 that when Jesus said he was one with the Father – the Jews clearly understood that Jesus was referring to himself as G-d and that is why they intended to put Jesus to death.  Many Christians claim that they are one with G-d in one breath but then in the next breath claim there is only one (yahed) G-d and that the Trinity doctrine is valid.  Obviously, they do not know what they are saying.
 
The Traveler

I like this theory.

Since we are keen on speculation for this thread, I will offer some speculation based on research that I followed and speculated myself.  Among the Dead Sea Scrolls was a copper scroll that was also called the temple scroll.  We know that in the ancient world that records were kept on metal for special reasons.  There were also various levels upon which records were kept.  A special breed of sheep and goats were maintained for what was called the scriptorium scrolls.  The Isaiah scroll found with the Dead Sea Scriptures is one example of the higher quality scriptorium scrolls.
One of the non-LDS scholars associated with the Dead Sea Scriptures speculated that the most important copies of the scriptures were kept at the temple.  Prior to 600 BC. the stone plates that contained the Ten Commandments was kept at the temple in the Holy of Holies and inside the Ark of the Covenant.    It is my personal speculation that the Brass Plates were kept in the Ark of the Covenant in the Holy of Holies of the Temple according to the law and covenant.  That the removal of the Brass Plates by Laban was a gross disobedience of that covenant. 
That one of the primary purposes of the temple of ancient times was to maintain and keep sacred artifacts.  It is my speculation that the temple is intended to house the most sacred artifacts obtained through covenant with G-d.  Specifically in the Holy of Holies.    There these most sacred covenants artifacts are protected by divine covenant.  That if circumstance was required that G-d would inform his covenantal garden to remove such artifacts by divine calling – as according to Nephi concerning the Brass Plates. 
So, my speculation is that certain artifacts (including the Golden Plates) are in possession of our Apostles.  That there are safe places to keep such artifacts in the Holy of Holies or if necessary, a special prepared vaults carved into granite stone mountain sides (known or secret).
I find it most interesting to me that the L-rd has found the means in our own day and time to have many of the most sacred artifacts (including buildings – temple and otherwise) back into the control and protection of his covenant Saints.  Not only are these artifacts being returned they are being returned without the Saints demanding it so or by their forced efforts.  I do believe this to be a divine witness that the only true and living G-d is providing witness to the world concerning his only true and living covenant (authority church).  And also a witness to the Saints (with eyes to see and ears to hear) of the preparations for the returning of the Messiah.
 
The Traveler

I am by no means an artist, but my father was, and I was schooled in the arts.  There is a lot of the artist in their art.  In essence, all art at its core (meaning and purpose) is a self-portrait.
 
The Traveler

I have been pondering this thread and decided to post some more thought about spiritual influences.  I avoided using the term visitations because I believe the connotation of the word visitation is misleading.    I can only speak of my own experiences – realizing that there are differing spiritual gifts (Moroni 10) – it is possible to some do not recognize ministering of spirits. 
There are two distinct kinds of spirit influences.  One being the influence of light and the other that of darkness.  I believe it is extremely easy to decipher certain dark spirit influences of anger.  Some may say “you make me angry” but I strongly believe anger only comes through the ministering of a dark spirit.  I also believe that such influences are limited and that we as individuals must give ourselves over to anger before anger can be realized.  We cannot be forced to be angry – only tempted, influenced or coerced. 
I believe in the subtle influences of spirit.  Sometimes listed as whisperings.  For me such influences come as distinct thoughts.  I have learned to identify thoughts that are uniquely my own and thought beyond my understanding and abilities.   Jesus talked of eyes that cannot see and ears that cannot hear.  I believe he was spinking of spiritual influences and ministering.  It is my experience that the subtle influences of a spirit of light are most difficult to recognize if someone is not loyal to their covenants.  It is also my experience that anger is a unmistakable indication that someone is being influenced by a dark spirit.  As a side note there is a poster on the forum ( @prisonchaplain ) that I have never seen influenced to anger.  This is a strong witness to me of his devotion to be faithful to his promises and covenants to G-d.
In the Book of Mormon, the brother of Jared, because of his faith, saw the finger of G-d during an occasion of spirit influence.  This indicates to me that visual encounters are rare compared to strong spirits of light ministering.   Preceding his first vision, young Joseph Smith encountered a powerful influence of a dark spirit the bound him and caused great fear.  Yet, Joseph did not see what was binding him.
My point is that we can be visited by spirits, both spirits of light as well as darkness and not see or hear anything with our physical eyes and ears.  I do not think I can even count the times that I have felt the influence of a spiritual being in my presents, but only twice have I seen and heard anything with my physical eyes and ears.  One such occasion was while I was in the Celestial room of a temple during the dedication of that temple.
Many of us are worried about the influences of darkness in the world around and about us.  My main purpose for this thread is to raise the awareness that there are more and greater influences of light on the side of those that see light during these last days before the return of the Messiah.  If this is hard or difficult for anyone reading in that you are not experiencing comfort – I would suggest you recommit yourself (through behavior) to covenants of righteousness.
 
The Traveler

There are two things that come to my mind.  The first is that it is possible that there are individuals alive today that know where artifacts associated with the Book of Mormon are.  They may even have access to them.  However, if such is the case that knowledge is as carefully guarded as the artifacts themselves.  
The second I would relate to a spiritual manifestation I received as a youth concerning the divine origin of the Book of Mormon.  For much of my life I have thought that experience to be sufficient testimony.  More and more I am realizing that this sacred work (marvelous work and a wonder) is not an end in and of itself.  That it is necessary to study and ponder the Book of Mormon to be spiritually ready for things happening currently in our day.  Study and ponder does not mean to read and read hundreds of times.
Our prophets have testified on many occasions that we need to (as individuals) carefully study and ponder the revelations and prophesies in the Book of Mormon – including the inclusions in the Book of Mormon from the great prophet Isaiah.  Though there are many good people with good intensions is all the religions I have encountered – there is nothing on earth like or comparable to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  No other society or individuals have greater access to divine purpose and calling than the Latter-day Saints.  Key to our calling and mission as Saints in preparing for the coming Messiah is the Book of Mormon.  We ought to and must become spiritual experts in the great secrets and revelations contained in the Book of Mormon as well as all our standard works and words spoken by our prophets.  But the Book of Mormon is paramount.
This year under the instructions of “Follow Me”, all the saints worldwide are encouraged to study, ponder and openly discuss with one another what we are gleaning in our study.  In all honesty I do not believe that speculations of where artifacts are currently located is contributing to anything useful.
 
The Traveler

I'll go further. The Republican Party is corrupt, and many or most Republican leaders are also corrupt and care about power and influence much more than freedom and liberty. Of the two major parties that have been thrust upon us, the Republicans are significantly less corrupt and awful than the Democrats, which is why I nominally support the Republicans. But I am under no illusions as to the purity of the Republican cause.
My feelings about the Republicans are in line with my feelings about Donald Trump and a potential second Trump administration: It's much better than the alternative, but that does not make it ideal, or even particularly good.

Having spent some time trying to talk with some liberal friends – I have concluded that it is unlikely that a contest between Trump and Biden will in anyway calm the troubled waters brewing politically in this country.  If anything, I believe it will boil over.  I doubt that we will reach November without open violence and an impossible political divide.  I do not think either party has the means or desire to deal with the opposition that is building.
Though I believe the Democrats to be the more wicked of the two; I am also convinced that the Republicans are more the buffoons that are clueless and unprepared.   I wonder if the stupidity of the Republicans is somewhat by the design of their leadership.  At this point, I cannot say I trust any political process.  My hope is in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  I had hope of the religious community of America coming together but since that community still cannot (as a whole) accepts us as Christians – I am very concerned for how much longer G-d will protect this government.  For now, I will support anyone or anything that can delay what seems to me to be inevitable.   I believe the Democrats will not only win but will win by much more than the Republicans (and other conservatives) can possibly imagine.  
 
The Traveler

Just a note.  With all the divisions within the Community of Christ it has been a surprise to me that few of those leaving have joined with us.  And then even the few – it seems to have been the next generation to find itself joining with us.  Perhaps it is the past bitterness.  The individual I met with seemed to have a defeated presents – I would think somewhat like Moroni experiencing the end of the Nephits.  I did feel that he was a good person expressing a sincere sorrow.  Typical to my problems with little compassion I did tell him he has a home with us.  His grace precedes mine with his thank you.
 
The Traveler

It is not uncommon to give familiar names to places.  I know of a few cities called Paris, London, Main, Portland and Bountiful just to name a few.  I have given up attempting to determine the land of the Book of Mormon – thought I have thought to have figured it out a few times, only to realize problems with the narrative within the Book of Mormon.  I have concluded that there are a number of places that Jesus most likely visited in the Americas – as well as several other places in this world.  I believe that there is sufficient evidence to convince me of visitations to many places other than the Americas (including in India, Persia and Northern Japan).   As a side note – does anyone know why Japan has a flag denoting the land of the rising sun?
 
The Traveler