Partly Cloudy 

by Shauna Brown 

       As I started out for church this morning I was faced with driving in deep thick fog. I could only see about two car lengths in front of me. Could barely see the lines on the road, and much less the traffic signals. The weather man got it right this morning. The forecast:“heavy fog.”  I have come to value the weather forecasts.  I marvel frequently how accurate the weather forecasting has become.  Some days I am grateful that I listened and carried an umbrella. 

      Years ago when I attended BYU I took many broadcasting classes with the hope and plan that I would someday become a television “Weather Girl.”  However it wasn’t in my future forecast. 

      Lately on the news it seems we are hearing a lot of weather terminology: “inversion, instability, wind shear, saturation, jet streams, wind speed, patches, polar front, pressure, ridges. With a greater commitment to accuracy many television stations have installed their own expensive Dopler Radar systems with the hope to ultimately supply the most ‘perfect’ forecast possible to it’s viewers.  I have gained a greater appreciation of the weather reporter. I wear a warm coat and carry a windshield scraper... Knowing as they announce, “There is a 80% chance and probability for a storm.”    

       Weather advisories - are defined and issued for significant events that are occurring, are imminent, or have a very high probability of happening. 

    Wouldn’t it be nice if we too could have a ‘personal forecast’ or a personal ‘advisory’ for the coming week? Wouldn’t it be comforting to know that we could anticipate  a perfect measure of happy Moments on Monday. Realize and prepare for an all out alert for trouble that would Touch down on Tuesday.  Be relieved when we learn that an extra measure of Wisdom would be distilled on Wednesday.  Partly cloudy thoughts will hover on Thursday, and then you would enjoy a fabulous feeling on Friday. We could see when the days of down pours would submerge our spirits, as well as look forward and savor the sunny atmospheric pressures.There in with the fluctuating forecast we could  rise to any occasion. 

      I question: If personal forecasts were possible would we ever be content with the common 10 day forecast?  Clearly we would want to see further into our future and then some.  What would happen if it was forecasted that we would have a great high five Friday only to find that it became a flat and frustrating Friday or  a ‘Top of the morning Tuesday was filled with times of trepidation and mistrust.   Even with so called accurate forecasting and advisory messages, we would come to find our weekly forecast imperfect. Perhaps we would find ourselves in an overwhelmed inversion. We would then exist with the  high probably of fluctuating disbelief. I think I would want for more and more ‘ in depth’ information. We would soon want to have everything our way according to our time table and wants.  

      We all are going to encounter cloudy days, some days even when thunderbolts will strike our very rooftops.  I like the advice given by Vivian Greene, in fact I have followed her council:

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass; 

it’s about learning to dance in the rain.”

     We must understand that our Heavenly Father is mindful of our personal forecast for growth.  God freely dispenses not only the sunshine moments but sometimes allows stimulating shock therapy that shakes our earth and standing. Clearly God has a plan for each of our lives. If we knew every event that would occur and transpire in our lives we would have little need to kneel. We wouldn’t develop trust or the belief that there will be better days ahead. Faith would become much like the fog this morning. We would be more than eager to drive through it than to be humble enough to trust that God would see us through. Predictions would handicap and demand constant advisory warnings.  Hope wouldn’t have a place in our vocabulary or life test. Somedays we would just stay home and “weather the storm.”

So just as we are pleasantly surprised with a sudden rainbow, or an abrupt cloud burst, we too must consider ... that spasmodic micro bursts of challenges have profound purpose in our lives. Churning currents of concern can be a key to our progression, growth and knowledge.   Shifting thoughts can humble us enough to ask of God. 

Just yesterday morning I looked out the window observing that all the trees were laden with white “Fairy Lace.” It was an impressive sight.  Zillions of ice crystals casting luminous rays of sparkling wonders. I could have easily missed it had I slept in. It was an incredible inversion which just by the view of it ultimately helped me recognize and feel a greater conversion. Everything testifies of Christ.

   So let us rejoice that with the seasonal changes of life come added moments of unexpected possibilities.  

      I second the thought of President Gordon B. Hinckley:

“Cultivate an attitude of happiness. Cultivate a spirit of optimism. Walk with faith, rejoicing in the beauties of nature, in the goodness of those you love, in the testimony which you carry in your heart concerning things divine.” 

     Enjoy the fog and crystal mornings... ‘cause  you can.

     Happy Sabbath. 

      Love Shauna 

Precious Moments

by Shauna V. Brown 

      Yes, it Thursday and I'm just a few days late, let me explain: Last weekend Rick and I got the fun experience of tending four of our grandchildren ranging from ages 2 to 7. Thus, the reason for not writing on Sunday. It was a weekend that brought a flood of sweet and reflective memories.  

      When I had three little children,  I felt impressed to write a song. The melody came quickly. I called it Peanut Butter Kisses. It was generated by my children’s peanut butter fingers, messy faces and the reality that kisses were welcome no matter how sticky- icky.  More than that I knew that some day those moments would vanish and would be missed.   Let me share the last verse: 

Tomorrow is coming, my time with them is past. 

It’s only thru these memories that these days will surely last.

Dear Father, thank you greatly for sending them to me

My only wish is Father, I’ll have them for eternity.

Crayon marks will disappear, the scratches they will  heal.

Stories told to sweet ones, the closeness that they feel.

Tomorrow is coming, I see my life in a special  way,

 I get tickled when I hear them say, “ I love  you, I love you,”  

I love Peanut Butter Kisses, A bear hug ‘round the neck    

 Swing me high among the clouds and blowing breeze.

Run with me a among the tallest trees.

Love me  now and  through  eternity! 

Yes, with four active young grandchildren I once again wiped away tears, tied shoe laces, cleaned dirty faces, buttoned shirts, changed diapers, wiped up spilt juice, picked up toys over and over again, and enjoyed the sounds of children playing. 

     I wish to share a tender moment I enjoyed with my two year old granddaughter, Paige.  I think she looks like a Precious Moment figurine. Her eyes and small features make you just want to squeeze her.  

        I had reached the point in the day when breathing becomes easier and anticipated - bedtime. I had zipped Paige into her snuggly warm poka-dot pajamas, the ones with feet in them.  I held her close and wondered how many times had I zipped my own children into their pajamas. I did some math and figured it to be around 18, 090 times- give or take a few zippings.   We settled in the rocking chair where a stack of books were awaiting to be read. Paige then cuddled closer and I felt to sing a family favorite lullaby: “Tender shepherd, tender shepherd, let me help you count your sheep.”  

        Within a few measures while singing I glanced over Paige’s head into the hallway. There within a large picture frame on the wall was my youngest daughter, Brittany. She seemed to be looking straight at me.   Instantly my voice quivered and the melody began to break.  Tears rolled down my face.  What seemed to be like yesterday faced me directly: My little girl all grown up, a mother now and expecting her fifth child. 

     Paige looked somewhat puzzled as to the tears. Then as if to make it all better she tenderly patted my wet cheek. With her caring, 'precious moment'  eyes it caused my emotions to flood even faster. I could no longer carry a tune, and my throat became dry.  It was then I gave Paige a gentle hug, a long one, and rocked her more.  Perhaps I was rocking me. In so doing I felt comfort and  “home again.”  

     There is something about watching your children grow up and take your place in this earthly journey. They are the ones who now scrub the crayon marks, kiss the hurts, fill up the bathtub with bubbles, sing the baby’s lullaby, catch the grasshoppers in Miraclewhip jars, worry about fevered bodies, tell stories and cuddle their little ones close. Did I hug enough, did I tell them that I loved them enough, did I teach them of God enough? Did I?

       I know I experienced some highs and lows in raising my children. I faced  blue cloud days as well as enjoyed the 'dripping in sunshine' moments of motherhood. There are days when I wish I could back up and listen to the sounds of laughter and giggles again.  My young season of motherhood has past. My peanut butter song written thirty five years ago holds the truth: Tomorrow is coming, and I do see my life in a different way. I find that I never will out grow being hugged or told, "I love you Mommie." 

      In all that is within me, in every thought and prayer I want my children and my children’s children and beyond to be with me forever--for eternity and no less. 

      So, Sundays With Shauna was placed on hold as I sat on a church bench with little wiggly bodies.  I then went to Primary.  My grandson Noah, gave a talk and I reflected still. Then it sounded like heaven as we sang the song,"I Am a Child of God"  --- and felt the circle of love and a heaven's lullaby in my heart. 

      May we all treasure our precious moments.

Enjoy!

Love to all

Shauna

        

                   YOUR CURTAIN CALL

   by Shauna Brown 

Scene 1:  Enter stage left • Rick and Shauna.  Ralph sitting by bed reading to Miriam.

    As we entered the room Ralph was sitting close by the side of the bed a reading stories from“Chicken Soup for the Soul,” to my sister.

     Yesterday Rick and I spent several hours at the hospital with my sister Miriam who is 83 years young. Between the heart attack, broken arm from falling on the ice, horrible bronchitis, rendered her curled up on the bed. Life looked a bit bleak and depressing.   

      Miriam has played an important role in my life. One might say I grew up in her shadow, off stage a bit with twenty years between us. A talented woman who has accomplished much in her lifetime. She has used her talents to bless the lives of her children, and serving the Lord. Many of you may have seen her, and her husband Carl acting the parts of Adam and Eve in the Salt Lake Temple.  Through thick and thin Miriam has strives to be positive. She has faced many challenges that I know have tested her courage, strength, purpose and trust in God.  One only has to review some of paths of her life to realize she had to learn to have faith in God. Cancer came knocking, divorce, finishing college while raising six children and teaching piano to maintain the financial needs of the family. Too many ups and downs to count, too many boulders to push aside, but through it all she smiled and prayed for better days.

Scene II:  Enter stage right • Brother Alfred.

    While there my older brother Alfred arrived at the hospital.  Alfred is going through his own challenges of life and yet he came to cheer, love and give courage, and instill an extra measure of worth to his sister, Miriam.

Scene III:   Center Stage • Priesthood men gathered in a circle.  Alfred, Rick, Ralph

     

I stood by and watched as three men place their hands upon Miriam's head, annointing her with oil. I listened as Alfred was voice in the prayer and extended words of comfort. What a blessing it is to feel of God’s touch is in our lives.

Scene IV:  Shauna & Rick :  Exit stage left, and time to play my part else where.

      For years now my life has been seasoned with the writing of scripts, monologues, plays and stories. It has been a blessing to give breathe to characters and see them come alive.   The leading roles, the supporting parts, the extras give texture to the story, which in the writing is a rewarding adventure.  

    

    I remember being a young girl and hearing Pres. David O. McKay relate over the pulpit of the event that changed his life and way of living. While he and his companion were serving their missions in Scotland they happened upon a broken down dwelling with a stone positioned over the doorway.  The stone has words inscribed upon it. David told his companion that he was going to see what it said. While he was walking up the gravel walkway the words came into view. On the stone was the following saying:     

          “Whate’er Thou Are Art, Act Well Thy Part.” 

        These few words became a motto to David.  Interesting they became of great value in my life as well.  It was revealed at an early age that I loved to act, or be the center of attention. 

 Studying Shakespeare -I loved the line by Jaques in Act II Scene VII  from the stage play,  As You Like It.

 “All the world is a stage, and all the men and women merely players: They have their exits and their entrances.”

We each need to realize that we are actors--playing key and valuable roles on God’s stage-- called life. 

     Yes, stage right, stage left.... you and I are part of a great cast. The world is our stage and all of us are actors. Some have leading roles, while others, no less, play the supporting parts. Entrances, exits, are all timed and blocked according to the masterful direction of God. 

      On stage when speaking lines are forgotten the actors have a ‘prompter’ who whispers their pick-up lines. In real life we don’t have that blessing. Once we say our lines of life, it is forever held. 

“Memories are like binders in which we collect the feelings 

of our hearts. “ ~ Shauna Brown 

      Perhaps it was the lessons taught by my parents, or the words shared by a teacher who stressed that it is impossible to erase some of lifes experiences, the harsh words or hurts.  We understand we can forgive and be forgiven, but seldom is anything forgotten.

Mother Teresa shared: “Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.”

        Academy and golden awards are bestowed to those who are have won the critics choice, who are believed to be the most deserving. Actors and artists who have demonstrated their excellence of performance. Best supporting actors are equally recognized. 

      Seldom does one see the retakes,the wasted film, the hours of rehearsals, the numerous times the scene was taken over and over again. We see the finished product, the best that’s possible. Trust me, seldom it is a one time take. 

   In our daily scripts of life I have found it most difficult to return, rehearse or reblock the scenes.  Rewinding, backing up, reliving is impossible.  Our actions, the sound  of our voice, the words shared-- truly do define us. Acting well our parts is recorded for all time... but mostly within the silent chambers of our heart. 

    “Words once spoken can never be recalled.” –Wentworth Dillan

So, whatever scene or act you find yourself in this day.  Choose to live it deliberately with purpose and kindness.  We will all come to the understanding that God, our maker is very aware of our entrances and exits.  All of us need to be the best of supporting actors who cheer on one another, give standing ovations, and additional applause as needed. 

There are meant to be those moments when we are upstaged or called to wait patiently in the wings.  There is a time and place for all.

     You see, in the end, the concluding act of life, when the curtain calls--  there is one who stands ready to offer the best of lines:

    “Well, done thou good and faithful.”            Enter in Stage Right

Enjoy the sabbath this day . . . with a cherry on top!

Love to all

       Feel the Beat - -  and Love it! 

by Shauna Brown 

           I was sitting in the car listening to my new CD of music played by Jenny Oaks Baker, beautiful violin music. She was playing some Disney pieces that I’m sure we all have heard and  many of can sing along with. I was impressed with her talent and skill.  Something within the melodies made me happy and lifted. Perhaps it was a mixture of memories and moments of my childhood days and even those times of my own young family.  One minute  I was stirred with Beauty and the Beast, then taken to  Wish Upon a Star. Each melody evoked a different feeling.  Then within an instant one song came on and I was flooded with another kind of emotion. My heart felt a sense of melancholy. I couldn’t think of an occasion tied to the song to make me feel that way, but the tears were signaled and I sat in silent wonder.  What caused such a difference in my heart, within my spirit? It only took a few measures of melody to change my frame of thought.  Then the song ended and I was finding my emotions changed as the lilting melody of Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious surrounded me.  Instantly I responded with more positive vibrations. Then my thoughts were taken to question why melodies can make us feel happy and positive, to others filled with sadness, pondering, as even others leave us agitated.

    In my early teens my mother encouraged me to speak to her roses when I was watering them. At first I thought it was strange, but with her repeated council, as well as some interesting scientific studies at the time, I began to believe there truly was something of worth within my ‘rose conversations.’  Mother’s roses were the envy of the garden club.

    Might I turn our thoughts to those ‘scientific studies’ my mother referred to. There was a woman, Mrs. Dorothy Retallack,  who while taking a biology class in college ran a 

series of tests in the late 1960’s, She wanted to know if there was a relationship between the growing of plants when exposed to different vibrations of rock music and that of classical music.  Quickly she learned ‘that rock music caused some of the plants to grow either abnormally tall and put out excessively small leaves, or remain stunted. Within a fortnight all the marigolds that had been exposed to rock music had died, but only six feet away identical marigolds, enjoying classical strains, were flowering. Mrs. Retallack noted those plants exposed to Haydn, Beethoven, Brahms, Schubert, and other scores grew toward the transmitter radio, one of them even twining itself lovingly around it. The other squashes grew away from the rock broadcasts and even tried to climb the slippery walls of their cage.’ The Secret Life of Plants, p. 154-155

       Not long after her experiments others became interested in the controversial study as well. Dr.John Diamond, wrote the book, Your Body Doesn’t Lie. Testing himself and other people listening to various kinds of rock and roll, as well as classical found results which startled him. The harder the ‘rock’ the weaker people became.

     Truth is, what we surround ourselves with-- vibrating sounds can ultimately build or destroy us. Vibrations, good or bad, have an impact on how we live and feel.

     Even loud and disturbing sound vibrations are used as a war weapon to create illness and uneasiness. While on the other spectrum good sound frequencies are used to heal, restore and balance health in ill patients, as well as trauma.

      “If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report, we seek after these things.”

       How many years ago were we guided to seek all that is good, and of virtuous report?

So, one should ask themselves, “What am I exposing myself to?”  “What vibrations are surrounding me? What vibes are of value in my life?”  “Who is giving off negative energy?” “Where can I turn for peace?”

       Spoken words, music, touch can have a lasting influence on our lives. No wonder softly sung lullaby’s send soothing comfort. While another song written may cause us to seek for higher greatness. Then, and sadly I find we are pounded by heavy metals and distorted vibes that will, if not given a relief will render a weaken soul. 

     So today, may we all be more aware of the vibrations, words and actions that we are emitting to others, as well as receiving.  May you and I be positive energy producers. 

 The creator of all said: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” 

     Many musicians share how critical it is to tune their instruments before playing. We too, must daily, sometimes by the minute, tune our strings and spirits to God’s daily melody.  

    Might we all seek that which is good and worthy, thus allowing us to permeate the world with a clear tone of vibrated goodness.

   “ God knows our hearts and the melodies that we play within the strings

 of our souls. Might He beable to applaud and say, ‘Play on! ”

     ~ Shauna Brown 

       

    Enjoy Your Sabbath Day

                                     To See

by Shauna Brown 

     I remember sitting across the examination room as my mother inquired of the eye specialist, “Will I ever see again in this eye?”

    His answer was clear and decisive, “No, I am sorry.” 

    It had been months since her eye surgery and every hope, prayer and procedure had been extended. The reality that nothing could be done was a tragic reality.  My mother had loved her surrounding world. She had written poetry, vivid stories and was always eager to invite, “Hurry, come and see the beautiful sunset!”  She valued and wrote about her love of God’s creations.  My mother was the one who introduced me to the life of Helen Keller. Mama picked up Helen's autobiography at the library when I was ten. I have long held great admiration for a woman who lived in a dark, silent world. As I continue to study her life I marvel at all that she was able to accomplish.  Her life and thoughts have long held my respect. Let me share a moment of her advice:

    " I who am blind can give one hint to those who see: Use your eyes as if tomorrow you would be stricken blind. And the same method can be applied to the other senses. Hear the music of voices, the song of a bird, the mighty strains of an orchestra, as if you would be stricken deaf tomorrow. Touch each object as if tomorrow your tactile sense would fail. Smell the perfume of flowers, taste with relish each morsel, as if tomorrow you could never smell and taste again. Make the most of every sense; glory in the beauty which the world in all the facets of pleasure reveals to you through the several means of contact which Nature provides. But of all the senses, I am sure that sight is the most delightful.”

~ Helen Keller

  

    Might we take a moment to breathe in the beautiful things around us.  Let’s slow down and gratefully open the God given gifts. Unwrap the morning sunrise and blow a kiss to God for sending it.  See the value of colors and cherish God’s masterpieces. Generously sprinkle seeds for the birds.  Marvel how God wraps the earth in a blanket of white, as to nurture the coming sprouts of spring. Smile as a rainbow offers promises. Thrill at characters  within the puffy white clouds. Listen to melodies created and tuned to the Lord. Embrace the peacefulness of a sunset as God whispers peace to your soul.  

     I remember Helen sharing in her history, that one of the first things she wants to see-- is the face of a newborn baby.  

     What do you want to see?  Do we too frequently wear dark glasses and miss the vivid splendor of God's handy work?  

     So this Christmas as we unwrap the gifts given by our friends, family, and Santa, might we all take a moment and share a God given gift that we appreciate. Perhaps it might make our Christmas morning-- fully filled with rejoicing as well as blessings counted. 

    

     In all of Helen’s darkness she had insight: “For three things I thank God every day of my life: thanks that he has vouchsafed me knowledge of his works; deep thanks that he has set in my darkness the lamp of faith; deep, deepest thanks that I have another life to look forward to--a life joyous with light and flowers and heavenly song.” 

   Helen gloried in the Lord, and so might we.

   Merry Christmas! For Jesus Christ,is truly the light- reason for the season- and giver of the greatest gift to all mankind. 

 

Enjoy everything about your Sabbath and Christmas.

Love to all

Shauna 

Thank Heavens for Inn Keepers

        by Shauna Brown 

      Each year at Christmas time I think of the inn keepers in Bethlehem who probably regret that they didn't take the opportunity of being the host to the “holy family.”  Imagine it: “We have no room,” “My bed is all ready given,”  “Sorry, the person just a head of you got the cot.”  “I have no time to even think about someone having a baby born here,” “ Wow, what a fix you’re in,” “ I have no time for this,”  “ You should have got here sooner.”

     

     This sabbath day I wish to focus upon those inn keepers who have influenced and blessed my life.    

    From my original inn keepers --childhood home -my stable few, I was warmly welcomed. My family has been a lasting strength to me.  Parents who built and founded our family on faith in God.  There in, I was taught about a loving Father in Heaven and His son, our Savior- Jesus Christ. 

       Elder Neal A. Maxwell left us a sweet remembrance: 

         “Each of us is an innkeeper who decides if there is room for Jesus!”

     Reflecting upon those, many of you, have been 'inn keepers' in my life, I am eternally filled with gratitude.  Many don’t even suspect you played the part of an inn keeper, yet your love and acts of kindness have not gone unnoticed. If I needed a bed, I’ll sure you would have found one for me. 

      There have been lessons observed which have influenced the way in which I live.  Some of your sacrifices, words of advice, words of encouragement have proven to be significant. I have marveled at the numerous times someone has shared with me an insight, an experience, that would  prove to be personal revelation, in some instances - life saving.  Countless people have been living examples of an inn keeper as they welcomed and attended to, and even some of my unknown needs.  I have been the recipient of thousands of thoughtful expressions of love and care. Many have placed my interest and needs far above their own.  

     I think of the loaves of bread, the bowls of soup, the cookies, the jello salads and casseroles. Those who have washed windows, tended my children, cleaned dirty floors, changed diapers, stood by my side, walked beside me and extended their prayers.  The many advisors, teachers and family who continue to be  worthy examples and keepers.  I appreciate the thoughtfulness of caring friends and family, as when traumatic events came knocking on my door, many inn keepers were instantly there to ease the fear and encourage faith.

     I know for a fact,  that people have been hand selected and prepared by God and placed along my pathway to show me the possibilities, to see more clearly, to feel more deeply, to trust and have faith.  I have been inspired, motivated and uplifted by so many. I am grateful to all who have opened their doors, their hearts, their spirits to willingly give of their time and genuine concern. 

   I like to imagine the writing of our earthly scripts. I am amazed at how frequently I can see the hands of God.  

      Inn keepers?  I am surrounded by them. 

     Just yesterday, a woman wearing a large red Santa hat and an ugly holiday sweater smiled at me while I was shopping. Looking me straight in the eyes, she wished aloud, “Now you have a Merry Christmas!”     Funny, but  at that moment I was feeling ‘humbug blue,’ but God pricked her heart and I felt his words. “Be of good cheer.”   

    Yes, many of you are standing by the doorway of another's heart, and I know you will open it as you have done - time and time again.

“He shall give his angels (Inn keepers ) charge concerning thee: 

         and in their hands they  shall bear thee up”   (Matthew 4:6).

   "Knock, knock"

     Who's there?

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Strive Daily • Stand Tall • Spread Cheer

Enjoy the Sabbath!

           BEHOLD A ROYAL ARMY

by Shauna Brown 

    I love it when Rick brings in an assortment of his neckties each Sunday morning. He narrows down his selection to three for my review. He then placed the ties a top the suit he has decided to wear on Sunday.  It brings back a sweet memory of my own father and mother selecting the tie of the day. 

      “Which one looks best?”  

      “Which one do you like ?” He routinly inquires.  After a few moments of inspection I get the opportunity to vote on my favorite one. I have noticed on a few and rare occasions that there is a shift in selection, and I am OK with that.  You see, to me the greatest and important factor is the man behind the tie. 

     Let me share: Years ago, when I was serving in a Primary Presidency were trying to think of a lesson that would stand out and make our young children appreciate and value the father in their lives.  Father’s Day was the focus.  I shared the story about Captain Moroni and what a great leader he was. I told them that Captain Moroni was the chief commander of the Nephite armies. He was a strong and mighty man who loved the Lord and loved his people. He had sworn with an oath to protect his family and the people from the enemy. Captain Moroni tore a piece from his coat and made it into a banner that he called “The title of liberty.” Upon the banner he wrote, “In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children.” 

    Then I held up a sword.  Indicated that Captain Moroni probably carried one similar with him into battle. Then I showed the children the similarities of a man’s neck tie. It looks the same as a sword, if you hold it upside down.  I told them, “Each week when their fathers  put on their ties, they are members of a Royal Army. They too are seeking to stand for truth and righteousness. They are fighting for fatherhood, love of family, love of God.”

    Men are meant to be defenders, our knights in shining armor. Men who stand up for righteous freedoms. Sounds dramatic I know, but in all truth that is what our men are meant to be.

     I then told the children of a missionary who had served in England in 1865. His name was Albert King Thurber. While serving there he went to a pawn shop. In his journal he wrote: “Today I bought at a pawn shop corner of High St. Liverpool Road, a sword for 

1 1/2 guineas. I took the sword that I had bought into the upper room, and in prayer “Dedicated it for the defense of Zion and the Holy Priesthood, and that it might remain bright and never be drawn unworthily by me or my posterity, with whom I prayed that it might remain from generation to generation and that when drawn either for defense or instruction, the power of the Almighty might attend those who held it.”

     I felt power within Albert words and the desire of him being worthy and ready. 

‘That his (sword )  might remain from generation to generation for the defense of Zion.’  

      Well, my Zion is my family. My Lord. My country. My faith.

      I am grateful for those men in my life, and previous generations, who have placed before their wives a selection of ties.  Little did they know, we are praying for them to be armed and ready in spirit, power and purpose.       

Many think that men’s ties are outdated, restrictive, and some would even like to get rid of them. However, I contest it!  I wish to keep my personal symbol of all the ‘Knights in Shining.’ A visual reminder that we all must standup for the family, freedom, and truly become defenders of the faith in Jesus Christ. 

Today, more than ever before we find ourselves in a battle. Surrounded by the enemy and all kinds and means to destroy that which we should hold dear. So when your ‘Knight in Shining’ wonders why he got another thin and narrow gift box, for Christmas might he welcome it.  

Stand Strong • Stand Ready • Charge!

Enjoy your Sabbath

Shauna