Pearls & Perfection Pending

- "Don't interfere with anything in the Constitution. That must be maintained, for it is the only safeguard of our liberties." Abraham Lincoln

David was responsible for conducting a sacrament meeting at the retirement home across the street from us this morning. I really think they have it figured out. Church is about thirty-five minutes, most of which is spent singing. The Sacrament is the key focus and the talks are short and sweet. I have been strengthened both times we have gone and felt the spirit as well. I was particularly impressed this morning by Lizzy, one of the adorable girls in my Sunday School class. She is such a put together person. She works at the retirement home a few times each week on top of everything else she has going on in her busy life. I was touched as I watched her help each elderly person who needed assistance and spread the light that she emanates constantly. It was tender to see such love and care expressed through such simple gestures as holding a little cup to the mouth of a frail woman or gently waking each who had fallen asleep so they could participate in such an important weekly

I'd Rather See A Sermon Edgar A. Guest I'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day; I'd rather one should walk with me than merely tell the way. The eye's a better pupil and more willing than the ear, Fine counsel is confusing, but example's always clear; And the best of all preachers are the men who live their creeds, For to see good put in action is what everybody needs. I soon can learn to do it if you'll let me see it done; I can watch your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run. And the lecture you deliver may be very wise and true, But I'd rather get my lessons by observing what you do; For I might misunderstand you and the high advice you give, But there's no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.

"Make no little plans. They have no magic to stir men's blood and probably themselves will not be realized. Make big plans; aim high in hope and work, remembering that a noble, logical diagram once recorded will never die, but long after we are gone will be a living thing, asserting itself with ever-growing insistency. Remeber that our sons and grandsons are going to do things that would stagger us. Let your watchword be order and your beacon be beauty. Think big." -Daniel Burnham

Our lesson in Relief Society today was about eternal marriage. I am so grateful for the most perfect husband ever. Yes, he has his flaws, just like all of us, but he is so super perfect for me that I can hardly stand it sometimes. He is the most kind, positive, creative, selfless, productive, encouraging, helpful, generous, responsible, handsome, thoughtful, wonderful person I know. I am humbled to think that I get to be his best friend forever and ever and that he actually chose me! What a steal! Today, marriage is often considered disposable or even inconvenient or unnecessary. Luckily, I found one who is willing to throw himself into anything that will make my life better and he is in it for good. I can't imagine a day without this amazing man. He teaches me, strengthens me, and brings me joy. Marriage is not an activity, it is as James E. Faust said, "a joint quest for the good, the beautiful and the divine. This is the grandest quest I could have ever starte

Mormons (members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) are getting a lot of attention in the media lately what with the new broadway musical and two GOP presidential candidates. A lot of the talk is fairly humorous, some of it rude or untasteful, but in the end, none of it matters much. What does matter are things that last. One thing that has always remained constant in my life is the Book of Mormon and the help it gives me as I seek it. While I have a long way to go and many things to improve in my life, this book has always helped me to remember what I can do to increase my own happiness and become a better person. The Book of Mormon teaches the importance of treating others with kindness and being honest. It encourages virtue and moral living. It inspires hope and provides peace to those who read it. I love the Book of Mormon because every page helps me to understand my relationship with Jesus Christ and the importance of following his example. It teaches