Facemasks Are Preposterous

Stanford University published a study at the National Institutes of Health on November 22, 2020 entitled "Facemasks in the COVID-19 era: A health hypothesis".  Here's the link: Link to published study

It is pretty long and thorough and a fairly easy read.  I would suggest taking the time to read it.  But if you don't, here is their conclusion:

Go to:

Conclusion

The existing scientific evidences challenge the safety and efficacy of wearing facemask as preventive intervention for COVID-19. The data suggest that both medical and non-medical facemasks are ineffective to block human-to-human transmission of viral and infectious disease such SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19, supporting against the usage of facemasks. Wearing facemasks has been demonstrated to have substantial adverse physiological and psychological effects. These include hypoxia, hypercapnia, shortness of breath, increased acidity and toxicity, activation of fear and stress response, rise in stress hormones, immunosuppression, fatigue, headaches, decline in cognitive performance, predisposition for viral and infectious illnesses, chronic stress, anxiety and depression. Long-term consequences of wearing facemask can cause health deterioration, developing and progression of chronic diseases and premature death. Governments, policy makers and health organizations should utilize prosper and scientific evidence-based approach with respect to wearing facemasks, when the latter is considered as preventive intervention for public health.

As I've said all along, facemasks are not only useless, but detrimental for healthy asymptomatic people. Masks are ridiculous enough for healthy people to wear, but wearing them outdoors is absolutely insane.   Especially those who are running or exercising.   Absolutely preposterous.

Of course the media won't cover this study.  They want to keep the people suppressed and in fear.

This entire pandemic and ridiculous "safety measures" are completely politically motivated. Facemasks actually make people sicker and don't stop the virus.

Facemasks mandates along with all of the other absurd government mandates are only in place to control the people.  Yes, we are living under communism in the United States of America.  Very sad.

That's my two cents.

Holy Week and Happy Easter

In a world where rapper designed Satan shoes -- complete with a drop of human blood -- sellout in a matter of minutes, those who try to follow Jesus are becoming a dying breed.  As we near the Second Coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ, the world is becoming evermore evil and moving farther away from religion and Christ and His teachings.

For those of us who still believe in Jesus and try to follow Him, this is a holy week.  This is the week that our Savior completed His mission on earth, suffered and died for us that we may be redeemed, and was resurrected that we may all be resurrected.

During this holy week, the week before Easter, significant things happened every day in the life of Christ.

Here is a picture of the poster Lisa made that has been hanging in our living room this week.  She is a talented artist and did a great job portraying holy week.

In case you can't read the poster, I will transcribe it for you:

Sunday -- Palm Sunday.  Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem on a donkey. Mark 11: 8-11, Matthew 21:8-11

Monday -- Cleansing of the Temple.  Luke 19:45-46

Tuesday -- Teaching, Parables.  Matthew 22 & 25, Mark 12:41-44, Mark 4

Wednesday -- Healings, Miracles, and Betrayal.  Mark 4:35-41,5; Matthew 26:14-16

Thursday -- Last Supper and Gethsemane.  John 13:1-35, Matthew 26:36-45, Mark 14:16-53, Luke 22:39-46, Matthew 26:45-54

Friday -- Good Friday.  Crucifixion and burial.  John 19, Matthew 27, Mark 15:43-46

Saturday -- Teaching in the Spirit World.  3 Nephi 8 & 9, Luke 23:39-43, Doctrine and Covenants 138:11-24

Sunday -- Easter Sunday.  Resurrection.  He is risen.  Luke 24, Mark 16, John 20, Matthew 28

Yesterday and today (Thursday and Friday) are the days when Christ suffered for our sins and redeemed us through His Atonement.  In the garden of Gethsemane Jesus prayed as He took upon Himself our sins and "sweat as it were great drops of blood" (Luke 22:44).  Then, on the cross Jesus continued His Atonement as He suffered, bled, and died for us.

It doesn't matter where on the spectrum of good and evil or believing and non-believing you are.  It doesn't matter whether you are the most righteous or wicked person on earth.  It doesn't matter whether you are the most obedient follower of Christ or a Satan loving atheist.  Our Savior, Jesus Christ, loves us all unconditionally and suffered and died for all mankind.  Even if you don't believe in Him.  Even if you despise Him.  Even if you try to turn others against Him.  He suffered and died for your sins the same as He did for mine.

I hope we will all remember Him and reflect on His Atonement and Resurrection today and throughout this weekend.  This weekend also happens to be General Conference where we will be spiritually fed by prophets and apostles and other leaders of The Church.

This Sunday, as we celebrate Easter, may we all focus on the significance of Christ's resurrection as the culmination of His Atonement to redeem each of us.  Which made it possible for all of us to overcome sin and death.  Because of Christ's resurrection, each of us will be resurrected.  Every last person who has ever come to earth and received a body will be resurrected.  Regardless of how we lived our lives or what we believe.  What a miraculous gift we have all been given.

This week and especially Easter Sunday marks the most significant and greatest event in the history of mankind -- the Atonement and Resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

I am eternally grateful for my Savior, Jesus Christ, and for all He has done for me and for each of us to make it possible for all of us to be resurrected and to make it possible to live with Him and our Heavenly Father again.

That's my two cents.

Put That in Your Pipe and Smoke It

I received a quote in my inbox today that made me laugh.  So I'm going to share it with you.  I should preface the quote with the back story.

A couple of days ago there was an article in the Deseret News about a wealthy man, James Huntsman, suing the Church for $5 million in back tithing paid over the last 25 years.  James Huntsman is the son of billionaire Jon Huntsman Sr. and brother of former Utah governor Jon Huntsman Jr. 

Apparently James Huntsman has gone apostate, and is greedy, therefore the lawsuit.  His poor dad, Jon Huntsman Sr. must be rolling over in his grave.  He was an Area Seventy, and faithful member of the Church.

James Huntsman's lawsuit alleges that the Church defrauded members by misusing tithing funds.  This is a claim that is as old as the Church itself.  Mister Huntsman's claims are baseless.  The Church takes very seriously the sacred tithing monies and how they are spent.

So, the quote that made me laugh so hard was given by Joseph F. Smith, the prophet at the time, in the April 1907 General Conference of the Church.  Here is what he said:

Before I sit down, I would like to make another statement. Our enemies have been publishing to the world that the presidency of the church and the leading officers are consuming the tithes of the people. Now, I am going to tell you a little secret, and it is this: there is not one of the general authorities in the church that draws one dollar from the tithes of the people for his own use. Well, you may say, how do they live? I will give you the key: The church helped to support in its infancy the sugar industry in this country, and it has some means invested in that enterprise. The church helped to establish Z.C.M.I., and it has a little interest in that, and in some other institutions which pay dividends. In other words, tithing funds were invested in these institutions, which give employment to many, for which the Trustee-in-Trust holds stock certificates, which are worth more today than what was given for them; and the dividends from these investments more than pay for the support of the general authorities of the church. So we do not use one dollar of your tithing. I thought I would like to tell you that much, so that when you hear men talking about Joseph F. Smith and his associates consuming the tithes of the people you can throw it back into their teeth that they do not use a dollar of the tithing for their support. I would like our ‘friends,’ if I might be permitted to use a vulgar expression, to ‘put that in their pipe and smoke it.’

President Smith sounds a little peeved, doesn't he?  I can't imagine anything like this being said in General Conference nowadays.  That's what makes it so funny.

But, the same principle applies today.  Tithing funds are carefully allocated and not ever misused.

Here is a modern-day quote from The First Presidency of the Church from 2019:

“We take seriously the responsibility to care for the tithes and donations received from members. The vast majority of these funds are used immediately to meet the needs of the growing church including more meetinghouses, temples, education, humanitarian work and missionary efforts throughout the world. Over many years, a portion is methodically safeguarded through wise financial management and the building of a prudent reserve for the future. This is a sound doctrinal and financial principle taught by the Savior in the Parable of the Talents and lived by the church and its members. All church funds exist for no other reason than to support the church’s divinely appointed mission.

“Claims being currently circulated are based on a narrow perspective and limited information. The church complies with all applicable law governing our donations, investments, taxes and reserves. We continue to welcome the opportunity to work with officials to address questions they may have.”

I never have to worry about how my tithing money is being used, as I know it is being spent wisely to support the Church and it's mission.  In fact, any donation to the Church -- whether it be tithing, fast offerings, humanitarian aid, missionary fund, etc. -- always goes to where it's been allocated.

There will always be, as President Joseph F. Smith calls them, "enemies" of the Church.  Those who don't know what they're talking about who want to badmouth the Church, such as James Huntsman.  As long as there is a church on earth, there will be enemies opposing it.  It happened in the early days of the restored church, and it's happening now.

To the enemies of The Church, who try to thwart the work of the Lord and mission of His Church, I will do as President Joseph F. Smith suggested and throw it back into their teeth.  And tell them to "put that in their pipe and smoke it."  :-)

That's my two cents.

Myron Hampton Stone 2 Mile Run Awards

We got the awards in the mail today for the second annual Myron Hampton Stone 2 Mile Memorial Run.

This year I went with trophies for first place.  Medals for second and third place.  And ribbons for fourth through 10th places.

I wanted to post the pictures of the awards to help motivate you in training for the race.  Or at least in participating.

So the first 10 overall male and overall female finishers will receive a trophy, medal, or ribbon.  

Although the race is still four months away, it's never too early to start training.  :-) Or at least plan on coming and walking it.  Should be fun!  Hope to see you all there!

That's my two cents.

Photoshop Skills

I know it's been almost a month since I have blogged.  I think that is the longest I've gone without posting anything.  Just haven't felt up to it.  Plus I've been busy doing other things.

I may get back to posting my opinions soon.  I have a few ideas of things I want to say.  It's just putting in the work.

In the meantime, I've been doing some work in Photoshop.  Here is a picture I repaired of my great grandmother, Lillie D. Christensen Sabin.  I got the photo off of family search yesterday.  It looked like it wouldn't be hard to fix the tear in the corner.  So I attempted it.  I think it turned out pretty good.

Original photo with tear in upper left corner.

After I repaired it in Photoshop:

Not bad for an amateur, using only voice commands, huh?

That's my two cents.

RIP Rush Limbaugh

I was sad to hear that Rush Limbaugh has died.  I had suspected that he was near death since he hadn't been doing his show for the past couple of weeks.  Unfortunately, I was right.

Rush Limbaugh was my main source of news since 2012 when I quit watching television news. Rush was the only news source I could trust.  He was honest and was good at explaining things.  He made politics interesting and understandable.  He was the best at what he did.

I never listened to him on the radio -- because I hate advertisements that much -- but I read his website every day.  His radio show was transcribed on his website and I would read it every day.  Some days I would just read the headlines or one or two segments.  But it was an efficient way to get a three-hour program in a shorter amount of time.

I will certainly miss my daily dose of Rush Limbaugh.  I will have to find a new source of news and information.  It's hard to find anyone with integrity anymore -- especially in journalism-- who will tell the truth.  And especially well-known celebrity type people who often become corrupt throughout their career.  Rush was always forthcoming and truthful.  Despite his fame.

Thinking of Rush Limbaugh, the Scripture from Job comes to mind:

Job 27:5

"...till I die I will not remove mine integrity from me."

That was Rush Limbaugh.  He was a man of integrity.  I know his millions of listeners are saddened today to hear the news of his death.  I am one of them.  Rush has now gone to meet his maker and is now free from the pains of his cancer ridden body. But he will be missed here on earth.

RIP Rush Limbaugh!  January 12, 1951- February 17, 2021

That's my two cents.

Romney the Reprobate

About a year ago I wrote a blog post that I titled "Romney the RINO".  That was after he was the only Republican senator to vote to impeach President Trump last year.  Everything I said back then is still true.  

Mitt Romney is a despicable hypocrite reprobate.  I honestly don't know how he can live with himself.  He has deceived and betrayed the people of Utah who voted for him to represent them in the United States Senate.  He has voted to impeach an innocent man twice.  Everything he votes for goes against the values of those he represents in Utah and against the values he supposedly believes as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints.

Mitt Romney is a corrupt swamp dweller.  Like all politicians -- especially career politicians like Mitt -- he has become drunk with power and is wantonly exercising unrighteous dominion.

Doctrine and Covenants 121:39

"We have learned by sad experience that it is the nature and disposition of almost all men, as soon as they get a little authority, as they suppose, they will immediately begin to exercise unrighteous dominion."

Like the Scripture says, it is human nature to exercise unrighteous dominion when people are given a little power.  But I tend to hold members of the church to a higher standard because they have been taught truth.  They should know better.  I would be disgusted with Mitt Romney no matter what.  But the fact that not only is he a member of the church, but he has also held various leadership callings in which he should understand the severity of what he is doing, makes his behavior even worse.

The way I see it, Mitt Romney must be involved in some serious illegal activities to have become so corrupt and evil.  He even has a dark countenance.  Anyone who fights against truth, right, and good like Mitt Romney does, has to be deeply involved in something evil.

To say that voting to impeach an innocent man on drummed up fake charges is upholding the Constitution is pure hypocrisy.  Voting to impeach President Trump on false accusations is ripping the Constitutiion to shreds.  Not upholding it.

I honestly don't know why or how anyone could fight against President Trump so hard.  All President Trump ever did was make America great again.  Everything President Trump did was to protect and preserve our nation, its constitution, and its people.

To fight against President Trump, to vote to impeach him over some made up allegations is to fight against truth, right, and good.  It is to destroy our nation and its constitution.  And it is pure evil.  That is Mitt Romney.

Mitt Romney is a disgrace and embarrassment to the church, the people of Utah, and to our country.  Mitt Romney is a RINO.  Mitt Romney is a swamp dweller.  Mitt Romney is corrupt.  Mitt Romney is despicable.  Mitt Romney is a hypocrite.  Mitt Romney is a reprobate.  Mitt Romney is evil.

That's my two cents.

Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup

A couple of weeks ago we made this copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup and it was delicious!  So I thought I would share the recipe with you.

This makes a ton (24 servings) so you may want to cut the recipe in half (12 servings) or quarter (6 servings).  But the way I figure it, if you're going to go to all that work, you might as well have lots of leftovers to enjoy.  :-)

PANERA BROCCOLI CHEESE SOUP (party size)

INGREDIENTS

• ¼ cup butter
• 2 medium chopped onions
• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup flour
• 8 cups (2 quarts) chicken stock
• 8 cups (2 quarts) whole milk
• 8 cups (2 quarts) half-and-half cream
• 2 lbs fresh broccoli (chopped into bite size pieces)
• 4 cups carrot, julienned, grated (matchsticks)
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 8 cups (2 pounds) freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
• salt and pepper
• crusty bread or bread bowl

DIRECTIONS

1. Sauté onions in ¼ cup butter. Set aside.
2. Boil together broccoli and carrots until tender.  Approximately 15 to 20 minutes.  Set aside.
3. Cook 1 cup butter and 1 cup flour using a whisk over medium heat for 3-5 minutes or until you see a noticeable golden brown color in your pan.
4. Slowly add in the chicken stock and whisk again to combine. Simmer contents (stirring occasionally) for 20 minutes on medium heat—or until thickened and bubbly.
5. Add the milk and half & half.  Stir together. Do not boil after adding dairy as it may curdle or turn grainy.
6. Add the drained broccoli, carrots and the sautéed onions, into the pot.
7. Add nutmeg.  Add salt and pepper to taste.  Amount will vary due to salt content in cheese and broth.
8. Continue to cook the soup on low heat and slowly add the grated cheese a handful at a time and stir to avoid clumps. Once all the cheese has been added and is melted, remove from heat, and serve immediately. 
9. Suggestion: serve with crusty bread or in a sourdough bread bowl.
10. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container.
11. 24 servings per recipe

Give this recipe a try.  We ate it in sourdough bread bowls.  It was divine!  As good as the restaurant.

That's my two cents.

Here in the Real World

One thing I like about country music is that it often speaks truth and mirrors real life.  I have been on an Alan Jackson kick for a few days now since I watched a documentary about him.  I have always liked Alan Jackson.  He sings real country music and seems like a genuine guy.  I have watched his career from the get-go.  And of course, had all of his albums until around the turn of the century when I quit listening to new music.

One of my favorite Alan Jackson songs -- which happens to be his first number one -- is "Here in the Real World".  This is the song which catapulted Alan to fame and led to a long career.

It's basically a song about how everything is perfect in the movies but in the real world it's not that easy.  My favorite lines from the song are: Cowboys don't cry, and heroes don't die.  Good always wins, again and again.  But here in the real world it's not that easy at all.

There are a lot of people out there who don't live in the real world.  Their perception is skewed.  

Anyone who thinks the presidential election was legitimately won by a bumbling idiot and that there was no fraud committed is certainly not living in the real world.  Anyone who thinks that Donald Trump did not win the election in a landslide is not living in the real world.  Anyone who thinks that Donald Trump is a racist, white supremacist, incited violence, or any of the number of horrible things they say about him is certainly not living in the real world.

Anyone who thinks that life will be better with Joe Frauden as President of the United States is not living in the real world.  Anyone who thinks that anything good can come from evil people, who stole the presidency, running this country is not living in the real world.  Anyone who thinks that communism is a good thing is not living in the real world. Anyone who doesn't value their freedom is not living in the real world.

Anyone who turns away from God and religion is not living in the real world.  Anyone who values worldliness instead of godliness is not living in the real world.  Anyone whose philosophy is "Eat, drink, and be merry and at last we will be saved in the kingdom of God" (2 Nephi 28:7-8) is not living in the real world. Anyone who cannot discern good from evil is certainly not living in the real world.

Yet there are so many people who simply don't get it.  They don't live in the real world.  Like my buddy Alan said, "it's sad but it's true".

Unfortunately, good doesn't always win, again and again.  Sometimes evil wins. It's obvious that evil won the battle to steal the White House from the legitimate winner of the election, President Trump.  The evil swamp creatures have commandeered our government and are destroying our wonderful nation.  But one thing we know for certain, here in the real world, is that good will eventually prevail.  We already know the ending (spoiler alert) -- God wins!  Good prevails! It's just a matter of time.

So tonight on that silver screen, it'll end like it should.  And here in the real world, it will end like it should also, but the journey to the end will include lots of broken hearts and real tears before we get there.

That's my two cents.

Here is Alan Jackson's video of the song and lyrics.

1990 Alan Jackson at Farm Aid

Here in the Real World

Cowboys don't cry, and heroes don't die
Good always wins, again and again
And love is a sweet dream that always comes true
Oh, if life were like the movies, I'd never be blue

But here in the real world
It's not that easy at all
'Cause when hearts get broken
It's real tears that fall
And darlin' it's sad but true
But the one thing I've learned from you
Is how the boy don't always get the girl
Here in the real world

I gave you my love, but that wasn't enough
To hold your heart, when times got rough
And tonight on that silver screen
It'll end like it should
Two lovers will make it through
Like I hoped we would

But here in the real world
It's not that easy at all
'Cause when hearts get broken
It's real tears that fall
And darlin' it's sad but true
But the one thing I've learned from you
Is how the boy don't always get the girl
Here in the real world

No, the boy don't always get the girl
Here in the real world

Songwriters: Mark Irwin / Alan Jackson

Happy Groundhog Day

 As most of you know, Groundhog Day is one of my favorite holidays.  I like it because it's fun and obscure. Most people don't remember that Groundhog Day is on February 2.  Of course, people like me do.

Anyway, apparently Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow this morning and predicted six more weeks of winter.

Although here, it's rainy so no groundhog would see their shadow here.  So perhaps we may have an early spring this year.

I don't know why a groundhog in Pennsylvania predicts the weather for the whole nation.  I think local groundhogs should predict their weather for their area.  I'm not sure but I think groundhogs are widely distributed throughout North America.

At any rate, Groundhog Day is a fun holiday to celebrate every year.

Happy Groundhog Day everybody!

That's my two cents.

Amlici, Amalickiah, Fraud, and Freedom

I know y'all are probably on pins and needles waiting to hear my opinion on the fraudulent takeover of the United States presidency.

Like all of you, or most of you, I am beyond disappointed.  I kept hoping and praying that somebody would do the right thing.  Yet time and time again all I saw was backstabbing, corruption, secret combinations, and spineless wimps who would not stand up for truth and right.  President Trump was a lone warrior fighting to retain his legitimately won second term as President of the United States of America.

There's only so much one man can do against so much evil and corruption.  Literally everybody who was supposed to be helping President Trump, who was supposed to be on his side, ended up stabbing him in the back.  All legal avenues were squashed by corrupt judges.  Including the Supreme Court.  The judicial branch of the United States government is corrupt.  The legislative branch of the United States government is corrupt.  The executive branch (save President Trump) is corrupt.  All three branches of the United States government are corrupt.  President Trump stood alone fighting for truth, right, and freedom.  He's only one man.

It's really a shame that the smug, evil Democrats won this battle.  President Trump gave them a good fight but the Democrats ran the greatest voter fraud organization in history-- ask Joe Biden, he was bragging about it.  He said he didn't need our votes to become president.  He was right.  He knew the extent of the voter fraud organization created by the Democrats.  He knew what they had planned.  They know they can't win a legitimate election.  They have to cheat.

Despite the massive evidence of voter fraud in this election, the corruption of the judicial system and state governments -- and let's not forget the media -- swept it under the rug.  There's nothing to see here.  And gullible idiots believe it.

It reminds me of a couple stories in The Book of Mormon.  I always wondered why such stories were in a book of Scripture.  Now I know.  There are so many parallels from stories in The Book of Mormon to what's going on in our world today.

I'm not much of a scriptorian, but here are a couple examples.

First is the story of Amlici (Around 87 BC).  I've mentioned this story a couple of times before. I did a whole post about it on November 11, 2020.  Go read it.  But here's a summary.

Alma 2: 7-9

7 And it came to pass that the voice of the people came against Amlici, that he was not made king over the people.

8 Now this did cause much joy in the hearts of those who were against him; but Amlici did stir up those who were in his favor to anger against those who were not in his favor.

9 And it came to pass that they gathered themselves together, and did consecrate Amlici to be their king.

Amlici stole the kingdom by his cunning fraud.  Sound familiar? 

How does the story end? Amlici and his evil people made war against the righteous Nephites and lost.

Here's another example.

Amalickiah was a Nephite traitor (Around 70 BC) who wanted to be King.  He deceived the people and lead many away from the church by flattery. He fled with his followers and joined the Lamanite army.  (The Nephites were the good guys and the Lamanites were the bad guys.)  Amalickiah became head of the Lamanite army.  He seeks to overthrow the Lamanite king. 

Alma 47:4

Now behold, this was the desire of Amalickiah; for he being a very subtle man to do evil therefore he laid the plan in his heart to dethrone the king of the Lamanites.

Amalickiah devised a plan to kill the king.

Alma 47:22-24

22 But behold, as the king came out to meet him Amalickiah caused that his servants should go forth to meet the king. And they went and bowed themselves before the king, as if to reverence him because of his greatness.

23 And it came to pass that the king put forth his hand to raise them, as was the custom with the Lamanites, as a token of peace, which custom they had taken from the Nephites.

24 And it came to pass that when he had raised the first from the ground, behold he stabbed the king to the heart; and he fell to the earth.

Then, Amalickiah pretended to be angry and blamed the king's servants for killing him. He said that anyone who loved the king should pursue the king's servants to kill them for killing the king.

Alma 47:30

And the army which pursued after them returned, having pursued after them in vain; and thus Amalickiah, by his fraud, gained the hearts of the people.

Amalickiah then deceived the queen by the fraudulent testimony of his servants.

Alma 47:34

And it came to pass that Amalickiah took the same servant that slew the king, and all them who were with him, and went in unto the queen, unto the place where she sat; and they all testified unto her that the king was slain by his own servants; and they said also: They have fled; does not this testify against them? And thus they satisfied the queen concerning the death of the king. 

In order to obtain the kingdom, Amalickiah, by his cunning fraud, married the queen and became king.

Alma 47:35

And it came to pass that Amalickiah sought the favor of the queen, and took her unto him to wife; and thus by his fraud, and by the assistance of his cunning servants, he obtained the kingdom; yea, he was acknowledged king throughout all the land, among all the people of the Lamanites... 

He stirred up the Lamanites against the Nephites.

Alma 48:1

And now it came to pass that, as soon as Amalickiah had obtained the kingdom he began to inspire the hearts of the Lamanites against the people of Nephi; yea, he did appoint men to speak unto the Lamanites from their towers, against the Nephites.

So, he is instigating war to obtain the lands of the Nephites, thus gaining more power and control.

Alma 48:7

Now it came to pass that while Amalickiah had thus been obtaining power by fraud and deceit, Moroni, on the other hand, had been preparing the minds of the people to be faithful unto the Lord their God. 

While Amalickiah used fraud and deceit to obtain power and the kingdom, Moroni prepared to defend liberty and freedom by following God and trusting Him.

Amalickiah "did not care for the blood of his people" (Alma 49:10).  The Lamanites fought Moroni and the Nephites with much bloodshed and loss of life.  The Nephites win the war.  When Amalickiah was told that his armies could not defeat the Nephites, he was not concerned with the loss of his people amid all the bloodshed, he was only concerned with losing.

Alma 49:26-28

26 And it came to pass that he was exceedingly angry with his people, because he had not obtained his desire over the Nephites; he had not subjected them to the yoke of bondage.

27 Yea, he was exceedingly wroth, and he did curse God, and also Moroni, swearing with an oath that he would drink his blood; and this because Moroni had kept the commandments of God in preparing for the safety of his people.

28 And it came to pass, that on the other hand, the people of Nephi did thank the Lord their God, because of his matchless power in delivering them from the hands of their enemies.

 Amalickiah was "exceedingly angry" that he could not take away the freedoms of the Nephites.  He was "exceedingly wroth" that Moroni and the Nephites kept the commandments of God.

Sounds like the Democrats versus President Trump and his army of patriots.  There are so many parallels between Amlici and Amalickiah and their philosophies and strategies and the Democrats.  I'm not going to name one because they are all evil, power hungry, angry people. 

Democrats don't care about their people.  They have no morals.  They will do anything to obtain power.  They use fraud, they use lies, they use secret combinations to attain power and control.  They become exceedingly angry when they don't get what they want.  And even when they do, they are still angry.  They curse God and anyone who follows Him.  Just like Amalickiah.

What is the common thread amongst power-hungry fraudsters?  Anger.  Amlici and Amalickiah both stirred up anger amongst their followers to incite war against the Nephites.  Democrats do the same thing.  They spread lies to stir up anger in their followers.

Classic evil versus good.  Evil Amlicites versus good Nephites.  Evil Lamanites versus good Nephites.  Evil Amalickiah versus good Moroni.  Evil Democrats versus good President Trump and good American patriots.

I will liken Moroni to President Trump.  They both defended freedom and had faith in and trusted God.  They both wanted to do what's right and good.  They both worked tirelessly to defend truth and freedom.  They were both righteous leaders.

We now have a bumbling idiot in the White House, Joe Biden, who is really merely a puppet for the Democrat machine.  He is an illegitimate president who obtained his office by fraud and cunning deceit.

Much like Amlici and Amalickiah, Joe Biden is evil and will not succeed.  Yes, he will do a lot of damage during his fraudulent tenure as president of the United States of America.  But this is the Lord's promised land.  Our Constitution may hang by a thread, but it will remain intact.

God is in charge.  He knows what He's doing.  We may not understand why He is allowing this evil, fraudulent effort to prevail.  But He does.  Perhaps the same reason why He allowed Amlici and Amalickiah to fraudulently obtain their kingdoms.  Just remember to keep the faith and trust in God.

Although fraud is winning the battle, freedom will win the war!

That's my two cents.

An Open Letter to President Trump

Dear President Trump,

I would like to express my sincere, deep gratitude to you for all that you have done for me and my fellow Americans.  Words cannot express how thankful I am for your tireless, selfless service as President of the United States of America.

Despite the endless persecution and opposition that you faced every day, you worked unwearyingly to serve our nation, to preserve our freedoms and liberties, to make America great again.  For that I am eternally grateful.

No one else has the tenacity, drive and endurance to do what you did in accomplishing so much during your tenure as President of the United States of America.  I so admire your determination, your ability to get things done, to do the impossible, amidst constant opposition.

Anyone who values truth knows that your second term, as President of the United States of America, was stolen from you.  The evidence of voter fraud is rampant and undeniable.  You, Mister President, received more legitimate votes, by far, than anyone in United States presidential election history.  You won the 2020 presidential election in a landslide.  It's unfortunate, and extremely sad for our country and the integrity of our Constitution, that evil people, conspiring in secret combinations, have stolen the election and your second term from you and the American people.

Mister President, thank you from the bottom of my heart.  You are a man of integrity, fortitude, and a true patriot.

Thank you for your service, Mister President.  Thank you for standing up for truth, and for defending freedom.  May God's choicest blessings be upon you and your family. And may God continue to bless this great nation.  God bless you, and God bless America!

With love and sincere thanks,

Tammy Stone

Proclamation on National Sanctity of Human Life Day

President Trump issued the following proclamation yesterday.  More proof that President Trump is the greatest president of the United States at least since President Lincoln and maybe ever.  He certainly has faced more persecution and opposition than any other president in American history.

He is the most pro-life (antiabortion) president since Ronald Reagan and maybe ever.

I was going to take just a few quotes from this proclamation to post on my blog but I've decided to include it in its entirety.  I hope you'll take the time to read it. 

Proclamation on National Sanctity of Human Life Day, 2021

Issued on: January 18, 2021

Every human life is a gift to the world.  Whether born or unborn, young or old, healthy or sick, every person is made in the holy image of God.  The Almighty Creator gives unique talents, beautiful dreams, and a great purpose to every person.  On National Sanctity of Human Life Day, we celebrate the wonder of human existence and renew our resolve to build a culture of life where every person of every age is protected, valued, and cherished.

This month, we mark nearly 50 years since the United States Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision.  This constitutionally flawed ruling overturned State laws that banned abortion, and has resulted in the loss of more than 50 million innocent lives.  But strong mothers, courageous students, and incredible community members and people of faith are leading a powerful movement to awaken America’s conscience and restore the belief that every life is worthy of respect, protection, and care.  Because of the devotion of countless pro-life pioneers, the call for every person to recognize the sanctity of life is resounding more loudly in America than ever before.  Over the last decade, the rate of abortions has steadily decreased, and today, more than three out of every four Americans support restrictions on abortion.

Since my first day in office, I have taken historic action to protect innocent lives at home and abroad.  I reinstituted and strengthened President Ronald Reagan’s Mexico City Policy, issued a landmark pro-life rule to govern the use of Title Ten taxpayer funding, and took action to protect the conscience rights of doctors, nurses, and organizations like the Little Sisters of the Poor.  My Administration has protected the vital role of faith-based adoption.  At the United Nations, I made clear that global bureaucrats have no business attacking the sovereignty of nations that protect innocent life.  Just a few months ago, our Nation also joined 32 other countries in signing the Geneva Consensus Declaration, which bolsters global efforts to provide better healthcare to women, protect all human life, and strengthen families.

As a Nation, restoring a culture of respect for the sacredness of life is fundamental to solving our country’s most pressing problems.  When each person is treated as a beloved child of God, individuals can reach their full potential, communities will flourish, and America will be a place of even greater hope and freedom.  That is why it was my profound privilege to be the first President in history to attend the March for Life, and it is what motives my actions to improve our Nation’s adoption and foster care system, secure more funding for Down syndrome research, and expand health services for single mothers.  Over the past 4 years, I have appointed more than 200 Federal judges who apply the Constitution as written, including three Supreme Court Justices — Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett.  I also increased the child tax credit, so that mothers are financially supported as they take on the noble task of raising strong and healthy children.  And, recently, I signed an Executive Order on Protecting Vulnerable Newborn and Infant Children, which defends the truth that every newborn baby has the same rights as all other individuals to receive life-saving care.

The United States is a shining example of human rights for the world.  However, some in Washington are fighting to keep the United States among a small handful of nations — including North Korea and China — that allow elective abortions after 20 weeks.  I join with countless others who believe this is morally and fundamentally wrong, and today, I renew my call on the Congress to pass legislation prohibiting late-term abortion.

Since the beginning, my Administration has been dedicated to lifting up every American, and that starts with protecting the rights of the most vulnerable in our society — the unborn.  On National Sanctity of Human Life Day, we promise to continue speaking out for those who have no voice.  We vow to celebrate and support every heroic mother who chooses life.  And we resolve to defend the lives of every innocent and unborn child, each of whom can bring unbelievable love, joy, beauty, and grace into our Nation and the entire world.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim January 22, 2021, as National Sanctity of Human Life Day.  Today, I call on the Congress to join me in protecting and defending the dignity of every human life, including those not yet born.  I call on the American people to continue to care for women in unexpected pregnancies and to support adoption and foster care in a more meaningful way, so every child can have a loving home.  And finally, I ask every citizen of this great Nation to listen to the sound of silence caused by a generation lost to us, and then to raise their voices for all affected by abortion, both seen and unseen.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-fifth.

DONALD J. TRUMP

*Emphasis added.  Link to proclamation: (Whitehouse.gov)

Thank you, President Trump, for defending, honoring, and celebrating the sanctity of life.  Thank you, Mister President, for recognizing and acknowledging God's hand in creating life, and for pointing out that we are all God's children.  Therefore, we all have a divine nature.

Thank you, Mister President, for making America great again!  We, the American people, love you!

That's my two cents.

29 Years

It's hard to believe that I'm this old.  But 29 years ago today, on January 15, 1992, I embarked on my full-time mission and entered the MTC.

I was 21 years old and served for 18 months.  I must say, it was the most rewarding thing I've ever done.  And at the same time, the most challenging thing I've ever done.  Well, medical school might give it a run for it's money but that was a different kind of challenge.

It's impossible for someone to understand what a mission is like, unless you've actually experienced it.  It is an intense learning experience, with many ups and downs.  Lots of fun times, but also lots of work.

I consider it a privilege to have been called to serve and I'm eternally grateful for the rare opportunity I had to serve.  Not many people in this world qualify for full-time missionary service.  I'm thankful that I was worthy and chose to take the opportunity to serve a full-time mission for the Lord.

Here are a few pictures from my MTC (Missionary Training Center) experience:

Pointing to my mission on the big map in the MTC.

In our district's classroom -- where we spent most of our time.  Sister Stone, Sister Paulson, Sister Parent (my MTC companionship)

Studying in our classroom

My MTC district.  The lady in the blue shirt is one of our teachers.  This picture was taken in the hallway right outside our classroom.

Sister Paulson and I cleaning.  Seems like we did a lot of that.  :-)

Writing letters on P-day (preparation day) in the MTC laundry room.

Yet another week of letter writing in the MTC laundry room on P-day.

I couldn't find a picture of me next to the sign.  But I found this.  Two random sisters from another district.  :-)

This is in our bedroom doing our study time.

My district in our classroom waiting for the next class to begin.  See my empty desk?

My MTC companionship practicing teaching discussions with two other sisters.

My vantage point from my desk in our classroom.  In between classes again.

Mopping the MTC bathroom floor.

Modeling the excellent job I did cleaning.  :-)

I was only in the MTC for three weeks.  But it is an experience I will never forget.  I was glad to finish and leave for the Florida Tampa Mission.

On the airplane heading to the Florida Tampa Mission!

It was quite the adventure for 18 months.  I wouldn't change it for the world.  I learned more in those 18 months than I did during my entire college career. 

Looking back, it was hard -- but it was worth it.  Anything worth doing that is going to help you grow is going to be difficult.  A full-time mission certainly fits that category.

I would encourage anyone who has the opportunity to serve a full-time mission.  You will never regret it!

That's my two cents.

Witch Hunt

Our power has been out all day so this will be quick.  We are running on a generator.  But I have to say something.

The United States House of Representatives has voted 232-197 to impeach President Trump for a second time.  With all Democrats and 10 Republican representatives voting to impeach.

Pure unadulterated witchhunt! 

There are absolutely zero grounds for impeachment.  This is absolutely ridiculous.  This is how scared they are of President Donald J. Trump.

Seriously, it is a week before Joe Frauden is inaugurated into his stolen office. 

This just proves how evil and corrupt the left (and some RINOs) are.  And I might add, scared of truth and right.

While the House was voting to impeach the best President of my lifetime, on fake, fabricated evidence based on lies-- Here is what President Trump had to say.

“In light of reports of more demonstrations, I urge that there must be NO violence, NO lawbreaking and NO vandalism of any kind. That is not what I stand for, and it is not what America stands for. I call on ALL Americans to help ease tensions and calm tempers. Thank You.” -- President Donald J. Trump, January 13, 2021

Isn't it ironic that the very thing the evil lawmakers in the House of Representatives voted to impeach President Trump on, is the very thing that he has always, and still does, preach against?

The prophet Isaiah had it right when he saw our day and prophesied of what would happen.

Isaiah 5:20

"Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!"

This is exactly what the left does.  They call evil good, and good evil.  This is the world we are living in.  All politicians and half the country are corrupt and evil.  One lone man, President Trump, and half the country are good and stand for what's right.

It's very sad that so many people are evil and have such hatred for and fear of truth, right, and good.

That's my two cents.