President's Weekly Address 03.07.09

President Obama gave his address for the week. It's entitled Toward a Better Day. Here's the vid:

For the complete text click here.

I definitely have to give it to him, he certainly does everything he can to keep things sounding optimistic. Although if there's one thing I'm critical of, it's this focus on the past. He just keeps talking over and over about this huge deficit that he's inherited and how so many terrible mistakes have been made in the past and they'll change that. I hope he's right that they'll change it, but I think most of us have gotten the message about the economic irresponsibility. I mean we feel it on "main street" as he so often likes to reference.

Of course he mentions ARRA and about how it's going to create so many jobs. But assuming it all works the way he plans, it still worries me. He says the jobless rate is up to 4.4 million and ARRA is supposed to create 3.5 million jobs. That doesn't sound too bad, other than he says those jobs are supposed to come over the next two years. Now I'm no math major, but I'm pretty sure that 3.5 million is almost a million less than 4.4 so that means we would still have 1 million less jobs than we did beforehand and those 3.5 million aren't even supposed to come around for 2 years? Yeah, I see a little bit of a problem there. Now the one thing I will say, we can't expect him to be a complete miracle worker, but it seems like there must be something faster than that. I don't know, economics definitely is not my specialty.

Of course I still feel like I'm getting the same Barack Obama campaign politics I got before he was elected. I think there are few people that love hope and change more than myself, but I fail to see the substance of it really coming from President Obama. Sure, Barack is definitely a major change from President Bush in most of his core beliefs, but what about the actual processes? It seems to me like we're still getting more of the same. I just never felt like Obama really had a plan and it seems to be a continuation of that. ARRA and everything else they have been working on they admit isn't necessarily going to solve the problem (and I'm enough of a realist to realize that A. there's no quick fix and B. it probably will take multiple things to fix it) but there seems to be enough uncertainty there that it worries me. They stand confident that they will fix the problem, but do not necessarily seem confident that their policies will fix the problem. The planning just doesn't seem to be there. I said while he was on the campaign trail that I didn't feel like he had real plans articulated, but rather just those rather grandiose ideas of hope and change. Sure it makes you feel good inside, but when it comes down to actually getting it done what is going to happen? Currently it seems like the Obama Administration is simply doing something for the sake of doing something. They don't want to be caught sitting on their hands, which I think is a reasonably admirable quality. Of course it seems like a better idea to really find out what is best and what will work and implement that. Right now it seems like they're simply fueling the fire by throwing money at it and hoping it extinguishes the problem.

I hope it does Mr. Obama. Or else I'm really going to want a change.

Scripture Study 03.06.09

I read from The Ensign today. The article I read was entitled "Walking by Faith, Not by Sight". The article recounted the faith of a dear sister in Chile who had lost her sight during cataract surgery. However, the faith that she still employs is rather heart warming. Apparently she has not let the lack of sight slow her down as she still does make household chores such as cooking and ironing. I have a difficult enough time doing that with my eyes, I can't imagine how she does it without. But it really was a touching story as she explained her spiritual vision really is enhanced for her lack of sight. She's learned not to let her eyes get in the way, but to see things as they spiritually are.

Faith is such an interesting subject and it requires us to look past what we may temporally understand or see sometimes. Faith requires us to walk into what we may not understand or comprehend and there we will find the light and truth. I hope the kind of faith expressed by this sister can help see me through. I can't deny the frustration I've had in searching for a job and thankfully I still have a comforting feeling that everything will be ok. My Heavenly Father and Savior still love me, I have a family that is willing to do everything they can to take care of me, and I have some really great friends. Some things might be hard along the way, but I can make sure to have the sight to see the rich blessings that do await me if I will but continue on in righteousness.

In History of the Church, B. H. Roberts is continuing more of his presentation of the apostasy. I'm growing a bit tired of it all really. From a scholarly perspective I'm sure it's fascinating, but it's written in a somewhat dry manner and it doesn't seem the most concrete all the time. I was reading specifically about a lot of the heresies that had invaded the Church. There was one quote that I did especially enjoy though concerning the actions of many:

"Several come to church only on solemn festivals, and then not so much for instruction as diversion. Some go out again as soon as they have heard the lecture, without conferring or asking the pastors questions. Others stay not till the lecture is ended, and others hear not so much as a single word, but entertain themselves in a corner of the church." (p. LXXI)

This sounds so much like many that claim to practice their faith today. I definitely do not absolve any Mormon of such guilt either though. There are Sunday Mormons just as much as there are Sunday Christians. But it is interesting how so many of these terrible traditions of attending church only on holidays or really not practicing what is being preached began so long ago. I guess it's no real surprise. Humanity has not changed in the thousands of years they have been on the earth. We presume ourselves to be smarter and wiser than those of old, but I think when it really comes down to it, we're no better. We might have some better technical knowledge and such, but we still make the same stupid mistakes. I am so thankful for the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ to help me make sure that my course is right.

Scripture Study 03.05.09

So today I was reading more from The History of the Church. Not going to lie, this portion has been a bit drier. I have a tough time completely diving in. It's difficult reading too. B. H. Roberts (he's the author of the Introduction which I'm still in) is still recounting the apostate circumstances of the early Roman Church. I must say, I feel like Constantine was a pretty bad dude. Sure he did something that had some decent intentions through his adoption of Christianity, especially after the various persecutions handed down by former Roman emperors. However, in his adoption he basically seized control of the Church and its doctrines, thus corrupting the purity of what was once Christ's Church. Also, he turned around to persecute the pagans and other heretics. A quote from one of the ancients relative to this basically called out Constantine on the utter hypocrisy of persecuting those that were not of his faith. The teachings of Christ extol all sorts of tolerance, patience, persuasion, and love but Constantine would not allow those of differing faiths to practice such. Roberts relates the story of Christ's rejection by the Samaritans and the call of some of the apostles for fire from heaven to scourge the Samaritans. Christ did not agree with this because Christ did not come to bring such punishment but to lift us to heaven.

I guess that really is so much of what we need to keep in mind about Christianity, it's all about lifting us to a higher plateau. Tearing others down is never the goal of our Father in Heaven or Christ, but rather they seek to help us gain something far more than what we have. The hope and happiness they offer us is found in seeking the betterment of all mankind, not in the tearing down or destruction of those who may not be like us. I think a strong witness of this is the influence that these sorts of actions have upon us. When we serve others in this way, we feel the joy and happiness that comes through finding success. Also, when others assist us in this way, we feel a similar blessing and in both cases we draw closer together. Doctrine and Covenants Section 50 testifies of this. We read, "He that preacheth and he that receiveth, understand one another, and both are edified and rejoice together." This joint edification and rejoicing a sign that the Spirit is manifest.

Scripture Study 03.04.09

So I've been reading History of the Church by the Prophet Joseph Smith. I own the complete 7 volume collection and I have for about a year and a half and have never really read it. I have scanned some portions of it or referenced it for background on certain sections of The Doctrine and Covenants. It is interesting because it contains many of the revelations of the Prophet and it also contains The Doctrine in Covenants in context of Joseph's history. I figured I would finally read the books because we are studying The Doctrine and Covenants for Sunday School. It's been an interesting read thus far, but I'm still in the introduction. It's got a nearly 100 page introduction that kind of develops a lot of different ideas. Currently it's talking about a lot of the origins of the Great Apostasy.

The portions I read today developed the notion that the original Christian Church fell away with the Apostles. Wickedness and false traditions crept in which corrupted many of the standards. This was only exacerbated by the work of Constantine. One of the facts I found kind of funny was Constantine waited until the last year of his life to be baptized. The idea was that way he could have as much purity in his life and as he prepared for the afterlife. I guess that was a rather common practice back then and I would say it is inherently fallacious because it almost seems like a way of attempting to deceive God. Baptism is a necessary ordinance, but it avails us nothing if it is not done for righteousness' sake. Postponing baptism for this kind of reason does not sound like it is performed in righteousness. The introduction of the book was rather condemning of Constantine as a whole. I guess some of the records of him do certainly give him much glory, laud, and honor, however, he was largely responsible for much of the corruption of the Christian Church and some accounts liken him to Emperor Nero. Overall, there was certainly nothing performed which strengthened the standards of the Church but rather it became corrupted under the work of Constantine. This was only a further manifestation of the Great Apostasy.

I Belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (My Scripture Study)

So I think one of the things I probably have done a poor job of with this blog is really articulate a lot of my religious beliefs. I know most people that do in fact read this blog are good friends of mine so they know that I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It's funny that I haven't written much about my religious beliefs because they are such a heavy part of my dialogue from day to day. Also, I believe heavily in practicing my religion and studying my religion, so day in and day out it is a major focus. So I think I'm going to try to incorporate a lot of what I learn from my religious studies in this blog. I already conduct most of my religious studies along with my computer because I love how easy it is for me to organize all of my thoughts and notes, so that will also make it easy to import my studies to this blog. I try to make sure that every week I read the lessons before Sunday School and Priesthood on Sunday.

So today I was wrapping up my study of the Sunday School lesson. This week it's Lesson 9. The focus is upon The Only True and Living Church. Here are my notes:

• On what date was the Church organized in this dispensation? (See D&C 20:1; 21:3.)

- April 6, 1830.

• Read D&C 20:68–69. What do these verses reveal about the Lord’s expectations of us as Church members?
- The Lord expects us to manifest unto the Church our understanding of the commitment we have made before we can receive the ordinances of the sacrament and the laying on of hands for the Gift of the Holy Ghost. There must needs be a manifestation of works and faith that are in accordance with one that has been received into the Church of Christ.

• How might your life be different if the Church had not been restored or if you were not a member of the Church?

- If the Church had not been restored or if I was not a member I am sure I would not enjoy nearly as many rich blessings as I do now. The peace that I feel through the Spirit would be absent. I am certain I would not be such a right seeking individual if I did not enjoy the blessings of the gospel.

• What can you do to more fully enjoy the blessings of membership in the Church?
- To more fully enjoy the blessings of my membership I can become more appreciative. Appreciation is one of the greatest keys to joy in our lives. There are various aspects about my membership that I do not appreciate to the extent that I should. Also, I can find more opportunities to serve. I know I have not been as good about going to the temple lately, that is something I should certainly increase. Temple attendance brings rich blessings and unfortunately I have been missing out on many of them. Also, finding ways to more fully magnify my calling and priesthood helps as well. I know in the case of my calling there are many things that we are coming up short on and I can fix that rather easily. With the priesthood, I think it helps when I recognize what my duties as a priesthood holder are more fully and I recognize just how wide and encompassing they are. I know recently I was enlightened into the idea that when I am Home Teaching I am exercising my priesthood. I hadn’t ever really thought of it like that, but I’m pretty sure anytime I undertake anything for the sake of righteousness, my priesthood is at work simply because I am a priesthood holder and that is part of the blessing of that supernal gift.

The reading assignment for today was interesting. It's always nice to have some reminders of some of the basics of the formation of the Church. I must say though I don't like it when I am given questions that are so plain and factual such as the date the Church was organized. It's a very important fact for Church members to know, but it just seems to basic. The question and scriptures about the expectations of Church members I found fascinating. I didn't remember those specific answers to the standards expected of recent converts. But I am grateful for the opportunity I had to ponder a bit more on appreciation. Gratitude is one of my favorite concepts in life because I feel like it honestly makes us so much happier of individuals. Recognizing gifts brings us joy and helps us to share that joy with others. It's interesting how something so small can make such a profound difference.

203 VIP's: The Man Card

So I recently wrote a post on my blog I author with my roommates about The Man Card. I think it's a mighty fine piece of work so I'd recommend you check it out.

Dating Protocol

So I came across this post on a blog for The New York Times about a book that gives tips for dating in New York City. I found this to be a rather interesting post because dating in Mormonville is certainly very different than the real world. It's interesting that this article drew my eye and that I had planned to write a post about this because my good friend Stella wrote a post which was basically her dating statistics. I really have no desire to compile anything of a similar nature, but I will say that I do bat about .500 when it comes to girls I ask out to girls that I actually date (and I don't use the term "date" loosely, these are all girls I dated for over a month's time at least). But I digress...

So the book is basically formed off of a survey of individuals in the city of New York although the blog post also consulted some of the statistics from other cities, most notably LA. So I'm not really going to quote the actual stats or what not, if you want to see that, go to the actual post, I will more talk about the generals.

1. Don't Trust Those Blind Dates

Here they mention that friends and family are the best way to meet a date (family is not the best dating pool, that's called incest but friends are fair game) and blind dates are really not that effective. Is anybody really that surprised by this? I mean the thing is you have to find a way to create a meaningful connection with a person if you hope for it to go anywhere. Blind dates aren't likely to create this because it's such a quick means of being thrown into a situation that is usually a bit more advanced along the lines of friendship even. Of course I do have a good friend who actually married a girl he went out on a blind date with, so it still can work.

Random side note, I've never actually been out on a blind date or ever been set up with somebody. No biggie.

2. Text Messaging as a Non-Romantic Medium?

Thank goodness the people mostly show some sense here. I really don't think text messaging should ever be used as a means of asking somebody out, but I can't deny I hate text messaging. It's somewhat of a necessary evil. That being said, pick up the freaking phone if you're going to ask somebody out at the very least. I think in person is a great way of doing it, but it often can be difficult. Of course in the case of the inverse, that is breaking up with somebody (or even expressing that you're not interested) a text message is still not appropriate. I can't believe anybody would honestly do something so impersonal unless they like feared for their safety or something. On the same note, yeah, email is not kosher.

3. What Do You Do With Their Stuff?

Ok, so I'm not sure this is usually as big of a problem in Mormon culture because you obviously aren't moving in together or staying the night, but sometimes it does arise. Frankly it's not appropriate to do anything with it is return it. I mean lets be honest, it's stealing if it's something they want back and you don't give it back. It's hard to justify doing much else with it. Oh and if you get engaged and it gets broken off, girls give back the ring. Why would you want it anyway? Seriously...

4. Do New Yorkers Like Traditional Gender Roles More?

I think whoever asks should expect to pay. Now I'm the type of guy that I typically offer to pay when asked out, but I wouldn't insist upon it. I do love it when a girl asks me out though, I find it very flattering.

5. Quiet Places to Talk

It's hard to really identify with this category on the survey. The locations aren't really Provo type locations. That being said, I feel like on a first date it's about getting to know the person, so it's probably a good idea to do something where you will have a good opportunity to talk. Of course, there's nothing wrong with going to something where you don't have to talk all of the time because that can often be hard on a first date.

6. Meet My (Fill in the Blank)

I think I'm a bit more onboard with the people who "want a reality check." I mean if it's a good relationship, you really shouldn't have to talk about it. But I guess the problem is there are so many people (undeniably mostly guys) out there giving bad relationships that a lot of the issue arises from that. It does disappoint me how often plenty of smart girls seem to fall for the tricks of dumb guys though. But DTR's are kinda lame and really something more for when you're getting really serious or thinking it's time to call it quits. You should know what sort of commitment you're getting and giving.

7. So-So on the Bridge and Tunnel Crowd

So this one definitely doesn't apply because it's about New York locality, but the principle of location does. Location can be a big thing in dating, especially early on. The longer the distance the tougher it is and the shorter you've been dating the more difficulty distances create. At the end of the day, it's all about how much you're willing to commit.

8. Where Does the "Other" Come From? Maybe New York

Look this is about infidelity and I don't think too many people that would commit such actions would read my blog. I think this is a slimy thing to do period, even if you're just dating. You make commitments to each other and if you want to be with somebody else, call off the commitments first (unless your married, then just accept the fact you're committed and enjoy it). I'm of the attitude that if you're dating somebody, you really shouldn't even be having relationship type discussions with anybody other than the person you're with. Wouldn't you want that kind of respect from the person you're dating? Why don't you give it to them?

9. Personality Matters More Than Money

Certainly should be the case. I think this part of the survey is rather on par for what it should be. Looks are an important thing because as I often tell people, you have to be able to stand to look at the person. If you're not attracted to the person physically, it's just not going to work. However, that doesn't make it the most important factor, just probably the one that piques your interest first. Most of the criteria is really up to you from there. You know what you like and I can't tell you what to be interested in, other than I don't recommend being all about the Benjamins. Financial stability is a good sign that it is somebody dependable, but they don't need to be Donald Trump.

10. How Would You Snoop?

Please, are we 15? Why do you ever need to snoop? Be an intelligent person, you can tell things just by being observant, you don't need to be snooping. Of course I think this is a more difficult thing for Mormons to be able to snoop because of the not living together or being in each others' intimate living spaces as much. I guess I'm pretty anti this though because of a bad experience I had with an ex stealing an email and AIM account. Impersonation is not a kind thing.

Overall I thought this was a pretty interesting insight into the world of dating and didn't think it was too far off base. At the end of the day I think the key to dating is simply remembering the golden rule. Honestly, we have such a hard time putting ourselves in somebody else's shoes to decide how things will be received and whether or not our actions and words are a good idea. It's not that hard people, just follow Jacob's words.