Miriam Caldwell's comments

Do You Find Family Prayer Frustrating? - Blog Entry

31 Jul 2007 08:17 PM

That is pretty much every prayer for our family. Unfortunately both my husband and I sometimes have a difficult time not laughing at the antics of our children. One example is when my two year old randomly decides to start barking during the prayer. It got us off guard.

Relief Society: Cliques - Blog Entry

31 Jul 2007 08:15 PM

Wow your branch is small! I love the closeness that a small branch and ward has. Of course there are other difficulties as well--two or three callings each is just one!

Sacrifice and the Pioneers - Blog Entry

31 Jul 2007 08:14 PM

Thanks, I am glad to know that I'm not the only one that feels that way!

More Fallout From The Benadryl Flight Attendant Saga - Blog Entry

27 Jul 2007 08:45 PM

I might, but not if it was at the back of the plane. I hate flying back there. I can't imagine trying to get my kids and all the stuff I take to keep them occupied all the way into the back of a crowded airplane. Not to mention if the flight runs late, then you have to worry about a connection when your in the very back with kids. I think people just need to be more tolerant of each other in general.

Music in Your Home - Blog Entry

25 Jul 2007 05:35 PM

I agree, knowing the hymns can really help your children pay more attention in Sacrament meeting. Thanks for the comment!

The Spirit of the Word of Wisdom - Blog Entry

23 Jul 2007 09:06 AM

I have been thinking about what you have said. If you will look at TomB9 point three, it points out that Joseph Smith added the first three verses, and that the actual commandment from God started on verse four.

Additionally, when you think about the church voting on--it is not the same as a majority vote. It is more symbolic of recognizing it as God's will and part of the commandments that we are to follow. If you will look at Official Declaration 1 and Official Declaration 2 you will notice that these were put before the congregation for a sustaining vote. Sustaining means supporting vote--recognizing that you acknowledge that the commandments come from the Lord. So there are two other instances of voting--but it is not a matter of majority--more of those who are willing to recognize and accept God's will in the matter.

Similarly we are asked to sustain the prophet first when he is called, and then subsequently at each conference. We are showing are support and acknowledging that we believe that he has been called of God. President Hinckley has been prophet the entire time that you have been a member, but when he was called, everyone was asked to sustain him--just as a bishop is sustained or a young men's president. We acknowledge that the call came from God and then do our best to support these people in their callings.

We are each entitled to receive revelation concerning matters for ourselves. If you really feel that it should not be a commandment (although you do see the benefits) pray that you may have a confirmation that it is a commandment from God. The Lord will answer your prayer, as you search for your answer. I would also pray for peace regarding the matter.

Additionally as to it being binding--we know that the ten commandments are binding on us--yet they were given to the Israelites. God's commandments apply to all. The parents of the Stripling Warriors made a covenant that they would no longer fight. This was above what the Lord required of them, because He said that it was okay to defend yourself against your enemies. That covenant was a personal choice, and not a commandment, so it did not carry over. But the commandments are meant for all men. The covenants that you make regarding baptism and the temple are personal for yourself--your children have to make their covenants themselves. I don't believe that when the Saints had a sustaining vote on the Word of Wisdom, it was the same thing as the covenants that we make, but rather (as I stated earlier) an acknowledgment that the commandment came from God.

The Spirit of the Word of Wisdom - Blog Entry

20 Jul 2007 08:58 PM

TomB9--Thank you for your comments. I think that they are very insightful, and I have not had the time to do the research to answer rfink's questions. I really feel that you did an excellent job on finding the quotes and text to the questions.

rfink--I believe that the Word of Wisdom is there to benefit us. As the years have passed and the medical world has realized the risks involved with the behaviors it prohibits, this is indeed a testimony that it is guidance from the Lord. We each have the choice to follow this guidance, as we do with each of the commandments. I know that my life has greatly been blessed as I have obeyed the commandments, as well as the Word of Wisdom. The health code that is set out in the Word of Wisdom is still beneficial today. If you are really struggling with accepting the Word of Wisdom, I would make it a matter of sincere prayer and fasting, until you feel that you understand why it is there. The Lord can guide you to understand this as you turn to Him. Additionally, if you are resentful of the Word of Wisdom because you find it difficult to give up coffee or tea or smoking, you may want to pray that you have the strength to give up those habits. My father-in-law is a convert, and he told me that it took several years before he stopped craving cigarettes, especially when he was around others. But eventually the Lord took that desire away from Him. As you sincerely try you will find the strength you need to overcome these habits. (I am not assuming that you necessarily struggle in these areas.) Ultimately I see the benefits of following the Word of Wisdom both in my health and in my spirituality. I really do not see the benefits of not following it. In fact I know of the heartache that comes to family as a result of alcoholism or the painful effects that smoking has on the body.

Harry Potter Mania - Blog Entry

19 Jul 2007 09:23 PM

We will be getting the book at midnight. I plan on staying awake and sending my husband out with the kids in the morning. I get to read it first, since I read much faster. Oh I can't wait until tomorrow!

Car Seats Put Infants at Risk for SIDS? - Blog Entry

19 Jul 2007 05:34 PM

My kids' pediatricians have always told me to have my children sleep in a car seat when they have a bad cold, since it allows for them to breath better. Since reading about this, it scares me about what could have happened. Thanks for the information.

Is Your Family Time Disrupted by Summer? - Blog Entry

16 Jul 2007 11:52 AM

It is hard when you are out of your daily routine. You can still make time or find another way to talk about the gospel when on vacation. It is hard when you are staying at relatives though.