Speak Your Mind Friday - BYU vs. Utah</h1> <article> <h1>Speak Your Mind Friday - BYU vs. Utah</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 15:29:00 GMT</p> It's time for the yearly battle. For this one you have to throw out all records and previous talent. This one goes down to who wants it more, and which coach can focus thier team more....(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/21/speak-your-mind-friday-byu-vs-utah.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Wrong at so many levels</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:55:00 GMT</p> eHarmony forced to offer same-sex dating services By Michelle Malkin • November 20, 2008 12:59 AM So, this is “progress?” eHarmony, a Christian-targeted dating website, gets sued by a gay man demanding that the business match him up with a same-sex partner. The New Jersey Attorney General intervenes on behalf of the gay plaintiff and forces eHarmony to change its entire business model. To be clear: The company never refused to do business with anyone. Their great “sin”...(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/20/wrong-at-so-many-levels.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>A Different Christmas Poem</h1> <p>Rcougar — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 17:42:00 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:10pt;">A Different Christmas Poem</span></strong><span class="ecececec684283021-12112008"><span style="font-size:10pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-size:10pt;"> </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:10pt;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="font-size:10pt;"> The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,<br /> I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.<span class="ececececapple-converted-space"> </span><br /> My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,<br /> My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.<br /> Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,<br /> Transforming the yard to a winter delight.</span> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center"> <span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,<br /> Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.<span class="ececececapple-converted-space"> </span><br /> My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,<br /> Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.<br /> In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,<br /> So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,<br /> But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.<span class="ececececapple-converted-space"> </span><br /> Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know, Then the<br /> sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.<br /> My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,<br /> And I crept to the door just to see who was near. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,<br /> A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.<span class="ececececapple-converted-space"> </span><br /> A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,<br /> Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.<br /> Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,<br /> Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> "What are you doing?" I asked without fear,<br /> "Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!<span class="ececececapple-converted-space"> </span><br /> Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,<br /> You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!"<br /> For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,<br /> Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts.. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> To the window that danced with a warm fire's light<br /> Then he sighed and he said "Its really all right,<span class="ececececapple-converted-space"> </span><br /> I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night."<br /> "It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,<br /> That separates you from the darkest of times. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> No one had to ask or beg or implore me,<br /> I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.<span class="ececececapple-converted-space"> </span><br /> My Gramps died at 'Pearl on a day in December,"<br /> Then he sighed, "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers."<br /> My dad stood his watch in the jungles of 'Nam',<br /> And now it is my turn and so, here I am. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> I've not seen my own son in more than a while,<br /> But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile.<span class="ececececapple-converted-space"> </span><br /> Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,<br /> The red, white, and blue... an American flag.<br /> I can live through the cold and the being alone,<br /> Away from my family, my house and my home. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,<br /> I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.<span class="ececececapple-converted-space"> </span><br /> I can carry the weight of killing another,<br /> Or lay down my life with my sister and brother..<br /> Who stand at the front against any and all,<br /> To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall." </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> " So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,<br /> Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."<br /> "But isn't there something I can do, at the least,<br /> "Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?<br /> It seems all too little for all that you've done,<span class="ececececapple-converted-space"> </span><br /> For being away from your wife and your son." </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,<br /> "Just tell us you love us, and never forget.<span class="ececececapple-converted-space"> </span><br /> To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,<br /> To stand your own watch, no matter how long.<br /> For when we come home, either standing or dead,<br /> To know you remember we fought and we bled.<br /> Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,<span class="ececececapple-converted-space"> </span><br /> That we mattered to you as you mattered to us."<br /><br /> <em><span>PLEASE, would you do me the kind favor of sending this to as many</span></em><span class="ececececapple-converted-space"><i> </i></span><i><br /><em><span> people as you can? Christmas will be coming soon and some credit is due to our</span></em><br /><em><span> U.S service men and women for our being able to celebrate these</span></em><br /><em><span> festivities. Let's try in this small way to pay a tiny bit of what we owe. Make people</span></em><span class="ececececapple-converted-space"> </span><br /><em><span> stop and think of our heroes, living and dead, who sacrificed themselves for us.</span></em></i></span><span class="ececececapple-converted-space"><span style="font-size:10pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:10pt;"> <span class="ececececapple-converted-space"><b><i> </i></b></span><em><b><span>LCDR Jeff Giles, SC, USN</span></b></em><b><i><br /><em><span> 30th Naval Constru ction Regiment</span></em><br /><em><span> OIC, Logistics Cell One</span></em><br /><em><span> Al Taqqadum, Iraq</span></em></i></b> </span></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>How Obama got elected..</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:48:00 GMT</p> Stupid people... http://www.howobamagotelected.com/...(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/18/how-obama-got-elected.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Victory in Iraq Day - November 22, 2008</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:37:00 GMT</p> Here is an awesome suggestion over at Zombietime. I'm on board! http://www.zombietime.com/vi_day/ Victory in Iraq Day November 22, 2008 We won. The Iraq War is over. I declare November 22, 2008 to be "Victory in Iraq Day." (Hereafter known as "VI Day.") By every measure, The United States and coalition forces have conclusively defeated all enemies in Iraq, pacified the country, deposed the previous regime, successfully helped to establish a new functioning democratic government...(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/18/victory-in-iraq-day-november-22-2008.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Get the facts.. Mormons and Prop 8</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:03:00 GMT</p> Got this via email, thought it was interesting.. Get the Facts: 1. Mormons make up less than 2% of the population of California. There are approximately 800,000 LDS out of a total population of approximately 34 million. 2. Mormon voters were less than 5% of the yes vote. If one estimates that 250,000 LDS are registered voters (the rest being children), then LDS voters made up 4.6% of the Yes vote and 2.4% of the total Proposition 8 vote. 3. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons...(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/17/get-the-facts-mormons-and-prop-8.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Sundance Bailout? Not on my watch!</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 06:24:00 GMT</p> First I read this at KSL.COM Sudance considers seeking state aid November 16th, 2008 @ 11:03am SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- The Sundance Film Festival might seek financial aid from the state to keep the festival growing during an economic downturn. Festival officials say it's been harder to secure corporate sponsorships this year than in the past. Sundance officials have met with the Governor's Office of Economic Development to explore the possibility of receiving state aid. But Jason Perry, executive...(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/16/sundance-bailout-not-on-my-watch.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>In the Face of Hatred</h1> <p>Rcougar — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 18:21:00 GMT</p> <p>I got this from a close friend and thought this should be shared with all! Even though it is a SYMF I thought this should be published.<br /></p> <div class="EC_EC_gmail_quote"><br /><br /><br /> <p align="left"><strong><span style="font-size:small;font-family:arial;"></span></strong> </p> <strong><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:small;font-family:arial;"><strong> <span style="font-size:xx-small;"><br />All photos courtesy of Amy Fisler. Copyright 2008. Amy Fisler. Used by permission. All rights reserved. All Photos are Click to Enlarge. </span></strong></span></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"> <div><strong><em>Editor's Note: As some of you know, Meridian was hacked into last week, apparently by Prop 8 opponents, and in the place of our content was placed a homosexual pornographic film. </em></strong></div> <div><strong><em></em></strong> </div> <div><strong><em>For free email updates from Family Leader on issues that affect family and religious freedom, <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://familyleadernetwork.org/Home/servlet/subscribeEmail?subsite=">click here.</a> </em></strong></div> <strong><em></em></strong><br /></span> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">It has been an interesting week. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">The Chinese homily, "May you live in interesting times," has its roots in a curse, not a blessing. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">As I said, it has been an interesting week. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">The controversy in California regarding Proposition 8 (the proposed amendment to the California constitution defining marriage to be strictly between a man and a woman) built to a frenzy in the days leading up to Tuesday's election and then exploded into anger and violence in the aftermath of Prop 8's slim passage into law. </span><br /> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0001.jpg"></a></span></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">I am a Los Angeles Police Department detective supervisor running a sex crimes unit covering the western quarter of the city, which also includes the area where the Los Angeles temple is located. I have a fantastic crew of 20 detectives who are an amazing mixture of races and sexes. I have several detectives who are openly gay or ***. This orientation has nothing to do with their efficiency as investigators. I deeply respect and like these individuals. I enjoy working with them. My life is often in their hands when we serve high risk search or arrest warrants. I trust them implicitly. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Obviously, the types of crimes we investigate bring us into regular contact with victims who are of an alternative lifestyle orientation. It is incumbent upon us that our compassion for these victims be no less than for victims who are heterosexual. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><strong>Hard Choices </strong></span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Working in such an environment, I found taking a position on Proposition 8 to be difficult. Even though I chose to follow the direction of our Church leaders in my voting decision, it was extremely hard for me to place myself on the line when it came to actively working to ensure the passage of Proposition 8. </span><br /> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0002.jpg"></a></span></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Still, I watched in amazement as my fellow ward and stake members worked tirelessly, committing themselves full-heartedly to the cause – not out of homophobic hatred, but out of a love of Christ and a belief in the sanctity of traditional marriage. Their faith strengthened mine, and I committed to participate in a sign waving public rally sponsored by our stake to be held at a local intersection. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">By following through on this commitment, I found I had a greater stake in the battle than I had ever thought. I learned a number of hard and harsh lessons. And in the events following the election and passage of Proposition 8, I felt great anguish forcing me to drop to my knees in prayer – eventually coming to a more personal understanding of the Love of Christ and what he expects from me. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">During the Proposition 8 rally, as I stood with my wife and friends waving <em>Yes On 8 </em>signs and waving to the passing rush hour traffic, I learned several things. I learned supporters of both <em>Yes On 8 </em>and <em>No On 8 </em>liked to honk their horns. I learned the way to tell the difference is the <em>No On 8 </em>supporters usually accompanied their horn honking with an obscene gesture or a string of obscenities. They also liked to swerve their cars toward the children on the curb. </span><br /> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0003.jpg"></a></span></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">I learned when we didn't engage in argument with the <em>No On 8 </em>supporters who intermingled with us in the intersection, they became enraged, red faced, and fit to burst. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">I have no doubt <em>Yes On 8 </em>supporters both from our church and other churches engaged at some point in the shouting matches during the numerous rallies and demonstrations across the state. However, on the evening of my participation, I was amazed by the cool and non-confrontational way the <em>Yes On 8 </em>supporters conducted themselves. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">I learned at the rally several of our ward members had received hate mail after their names, religious affiliation, contribution mounts, and addresses were published on a website inciting <em>No On 8 </em>supporters to target the listed individuals. Their houses and cars had been vandalized, their campaign support signs stolen, and opposition signs planted in their place. </span><br /> <p align="center"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0018.jpg"></a></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">When I returned home after the rally, I had a huge headache and my stomach was in knots. I am not a fan of confrontation, and the noise of the horn honking, both pro and con, and the divisive atmosphere inherent in the volatile situation had taken its toll. Still, after praying with my wife, I felt calmer and was pleased we had chosen to participate. While our efforts were miniscule compared to the hours of service to the cause provided by others, we had at least jumped down from the fence and done something. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Then I saw the latest <em>No On 8 </em>television commercial. </span><br /> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0004.jpg"></a></span></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><strong>Tolerance? </strong></span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Supposedly produced by an independent group not affiliated with the official <em>No On 8 </em>campaign, the thirty second commercial spot shows two scruffy male white actors portraying Mormon missionaries who force their way into the well-kept home of a married *** couple. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">"Hi, we're from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints," one says. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">"We're here to take away your rights," says his companion. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">The <em>missionaries </em>then rip the wedding rings from the women's fingers and ransack the house until they find the women's marriage license, which they destroy. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">"Hey, we have rights," one of the women says. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">"Not if we can help it," answers a <em>missionary</em>. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Moving outside the residence, one of the <em>missionaries </em>smugly says, "That was easy." </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Flexing his muscles, his companion asks, "What do we want to ban next?" </span><br /> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0005.jpg"></a></span></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">While I was appalled by the commercial, I was even more appalled both MSNBC and The Comedy Channel happily took money to broadcast this overtly hate filled vignette. I cannot imagine a similar commercial, targeted at any other religious or racial group, not being considered a hate crime with a civic outcry for prosecution. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">My hackles were beginning to rise in a distinctly unchristian way. However, the <em>fun </em>was just beginning. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><strong>Election Day And Aftermath </strong></span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Election day in California saw numerous <em>No On 8 </em>activists distributing literature and vocalizing at polling sites in clear violation of election laws. Police were called, 100 yard distances from the polling places were paced off, yet the agitation continued. </span><br /> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0006.jpg"></a></span></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Despite these efforts, Proposition 8 obtained a slim majority (52.5% to 47.5%). Exit polls showed the proposition was supported by 7 of 10 Black voters, a majority of Latino voters, and by people with children under the age of 18 still at home. Clearly, it was supported by all people who believed marriage is a special and protected institution. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">The day after the election, spontaneous protests sprung up in West Hollywood – a small residential community, with a large gay and *** population, located within Los Angeles County , but just outside Los Angeles city borders. The protests did not have a particular focus or target other than outrage as they strayed outside the confines of West Hollywood and into Beverly Hills , Hollywood , and West Los Angeles . Several arrests were made, but the seething anger at the passage of Proposition 8 was not dampened. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">On Thursday, however, two days after the election, rumors began to be picked up by LAPD of a large protest organized by gay and *** activists and their supporters to be staged outside the Los Angeles LDS temple on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Los Angeles. </span><br /> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0007.jpg"></a></span></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">LAPD has 22 geographic <em>Areas </em>divided between 4 administrative <em>Bureaus </em>. My investigative unit is attached to Operations-West Bureau – which has responsibility for the area where the Los Angeles temple grounds are located. We operate out of a squadroom across from the Bureau's administrative offices. In such proximity, I was in a position to observe the command post set up in the Bureau offices to monitor the actions of the field command post charged with keeping the already illegal (no permits) protest peaceful. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">What I learned by watching and listening shouldn't have surprised me, but it did. During my 30+ year tenure, the LAPD as an organization has made great professional strides in the internal battle against sexual harassment, sexual orientation harassment, and racism. While there are still those in civil liberty organizations who contest we are still guilty of racially profiling on the streets (difficult to imagine when our department is so thoroughly integrated at this point in time), organizationally there is little or no tension remaining in these areas. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">In the Bureau command post there was a large screen television displaying scenes from the protest outside the Los Angeles temple. Imagine my surprise, when angry protestors began rushing the closed temple gates, and I heard an officer in the command post say, "I hope they burn that place to the ground." </span><br /> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0008.jpg"></a></span></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Imagine my even stronger surprise when another officer replied, "They better hope they don't get through the gates, because the Mormons have an army in a bunker under the temple that will come out and kill them all." </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Really? My temple recommend must not be of a high enough clearance to get me into that part of the temple. </span><br /> <p align="center"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0017.jpg"></a></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">I'm now doing a slow burn. Not only am I watching a sacred building under siege from 2,500 angry people shouting, " <em>SEPERATION OF CHURCH AND HATE</em>," and carrying signs proclaiming <em>MORMON HATERS </em>and <em>LOVE NOT HATE</em>, I'm listening to other police officers who agree with the protestors or have the most imaginative fantasies about blood atonement armies hidden under the temple (exactly how do we feed them, drill them, get them in and out without anybody seeing, or are they all in a state of suspended animation until needed?). </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><em>I want to emphasize these were not officers or detectives from my own unit – who are all aware of my Mormon faith. Those in my unit who disagree with me over this issue are respectfully tolerant, as I am respectfully tolerant of their opposite beliefs. Tolerance, as Orson Scott Card recently pointed out, is indicative of disagreement. It is not a battle we choose to fight amongst ourselves. Most of us have known each other for a long time and are either embracing of, or oblivious to, our differences – divisiveness has no place in the types of investigations we conduct.</em></span><br /> <p align="left"> </p> </span></strong><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><strong>The Mob </strong></span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">The worst, however, was yet to come. The temple presidency made a decision to close the temple for the evening. The right decision, but since when do we as Americans stand by – no matter what our religion – while access to a place of worship is forced to close down because of aggressive outside influences? </span><br /> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0009.jpg"></a></span></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">The late local news showed scenes of several Hispanic females in tears outside the temple trying to remove the signs desecrating the walls and fences surrounding the temple. As these individuals – who according to a temple spokesperson were not church members – removed the hate-filled signs, the mob exploded and began beating the individuals to the ground. Police intervened and arrests were made, but the fact this was allowed to happen at all was appalling. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Other supporters of <em>Yes On 8 </em>drove slowly by the protestors with <em>Yes On 8 </em>signs attached to their cars and pickups sparking other violent confrontations. </span><br /> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0010.jpg"></a></span></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">A friend of mine, watching the same scenes play out on the television, called and said he felt like he wanted to go down to the temple with a baseball bat and begin swinging at the demonstrators. I must admit, the natural man in me agreed. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">In actuality, the scenes on the television, literally drove me to my knees in prayer for the safety of the temple, the members, and our church. A lesson I have learned several times before, caused me to expand my prayers to include those who were opposing us for they are not our enemies – they are our brothers and sisters in Christ. </span><br /> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0011.jpg"></a></span></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><strong>The Appropriate Response </strong></span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">In the face of hatred, how are we to feel about this focused attack upon our church? An attack launched not because we are the only supporters of Proposition 8, but because we have been the most visible and financially supportive entity in the battle. We are an easy target. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">In a recent article on <em>Christian Courage </em>, Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles wrote, "I would say that one of mortality's great tests comes when our beliefs are questioned or criticized. In such moments, we may want to respond aggressively – <em>to put up our dukes </em>. But these are important opportunities to step back, pray, and follow the Savior's example. Remember, Jesus Himself was despised and rejected by the world. And in Lehi's dream, those coming to the Savior also endured 'mocking and pointing … fingers' (1 Nephi 8:27). 'The world hath hated [my disciples],' Jesus said, 'because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world' (John 17:14). But when we respond to our accusers as the Savior did, we not only become more Christlike, we invite others to feel His love and follow Him as well. </span><br /> <div align="center"><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0012.jpg"></a></span></div> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">"To respond in a Christlike way cannot be scripted or based on a formula. The Savior responded differently in every situation. When He was confronted by wicked King Herod, He remained silent. When He stood before Pilate, He bore a simple and powerful testimony of His divinity and purpose. Facing the moneychangers who were defiling the temple, He exercised His divine responsibility to preserve and protect that which was sacred. Lifted up upon a cross, He uttered the incomparable Christian response: 'Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do' (Luke 23:34)." </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">We have often been instructed to love our enemies, and despite the current horror of our trials, this is no time to do differently. </span><br /> <p align="center"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0016.jpg"></a></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">As I write this (Friday, November 7, 2008), plans are being made by the LAPD to respond to another larger protest/demonstration being planned by <em>No On 8 </em>supporters to be staged in front of the Los Angeles temple on Saturday. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">This is interesting since Saturday is my stake's day in the temple. For some weeks now, we have been encouraging families to come together to the temple on Saturday to participate in ordinances. </span><br /> <p align="center"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0013.jpg"></a></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">How do we respond to hatred disguised by the adversary as tolerance? Our stake president has talked to the temple presidency who has assured him the temple will be open for business as usual. There are eight weddings scheduled on the grounds. Will we be able to get to the temple without being molested or our vehicles vandalized? We must place our faith in the Lord and proceed. </span><br /> <p align="center"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0015.jpg"></a></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Challenges to our faith are not new. Nor are they likely to go away anytime soon. But, as Elder Hales reminds us, "True disciples of Christ see opportunity in the midst of opposition. We can take advantage of such opportunities in many ways: a kind letter to the editor, a conversation with a friend, a comment on a blog, or a reassuring word to one who has made a disparaging comment. We can answer with love those who have been influenced by misinformation and prejudice – who are 'kept from the truth because they know not where to find it' (D&C 123:12). I assure you that to answer our accusers in this way is never weakness. It is Christian courage in action." </span><br /> <p align="center"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ldsmag.com/ideas/images/prop8Vandal/latemple_0014.jpg"></a></p> <span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;"><strong>Lessons Learned </strong></span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Clearly there are lessons to be learned from the current unrest: </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Tolerance is not agreement and should not be a one way street. However, we must still remain tolerant of those who are intolerant of us. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Recognize the adversary at work here – making good seem bad and evil seem good. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">We can only be disciples of Christ when we respond to adversity in a Christlike manner. To do less opens our actions to the influence of the adversary and hurts us even more. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">We should never take for granted the opportunities we have to gather together in worship. We should never put off the opportunity to attend the temple. For these valuable things can be disrupted and possibly even closed to us – if not permanently, then at least on a temporary basis. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">Pray. Often. Don't forget to include those who are set against you. </span><br /><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:arial;">And finally, have no doubt President Monson knows where all of this is leading. He will surely reveal the knowledge to us on the Lord's timetable. Meanwhile, we must support and trust him, his inspired councilors, and our inspired local leaders in our actions. Their actions of Christian courage will be our examples.</span><br /><br /></div><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Speak Your Mind Friday - Christmas Music Edition</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:54:00 GMT</p> I can't believe i hear Christmas music on 3 stations already. Isn't that a little early?...(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/14/speak-your-mind-friday-christmas-music-edition.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Suspicious envelope with powder found in SLC Temple</h1> <p>ThomP45 — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 23:21:00 GMT</p> Oh boy! From: http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=148&sid=4787495<p> Suspicious envelope with powder found in SLC Temple November 13th, 2008 @ 4:07pm A suspicious envelope containing an unknown white powder was found this afternoon at Temple Square in downtown Salt Lake City. It was found inside the doors of the Salt Lake Temple in an office area open to the public. Both Salt Lake City police and fire departments are on the scene and are closing the area including West Temple, North Temple and Main Street. They are not evacuating the temple, but are not allowing anybody inside. HAZMAT crews are responding. <div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>National Ban on Concealed Carry?</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 17:16:00 GMT</p> Looks like i could soon become illegal.... via The Jawa Report: David Hardy is hearing that rumor from a " DC insider ." Sometimes, you read something like that, and you say to yourself, "nah...surely they're not that stupid." And then, it turns out later that they are, indeed, that stupid. Cross-posted at The Arsenal ....(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/13/national-ban-on-concealed-carry.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Veteran's Day 2008</h1> <p>ThomP45 — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 16:20:00 GMT</p> Today is Veteran's Day!<p> Thank you to all who have served this, the greatest country in the world.<p> I salute you all, my brothers and sisters of the United States Armed Forces.<p> <p> Thomas Pedersen<p> 1101st Signal Brigade<p> US Army 1986-1990<p> <p>I don't know how to get this to embed on this blog. Maybe some one can help?<p> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fexg3QDUB6w" target="_blank">Veteran's Day Tribute</a> <div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Happy Veterans Day</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 16:04:00 GMT</p> via LGF: On this solemn day, we honor the men and women who defend our country, the true patriots who put their lives and livelihoods on the line....(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/11/happy-veterans-day.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Can you believe this crap???</h1> <p>mefree — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 20:46:00 GMT</p> http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/11/09/bush-obama-meeting-hard-feelings-hand-sanitier/ What a stupid whiny child Obama is. This is beyond absurd. Even for the sake of argument, let's say everything is true. You don't go crying to the press about it! Way to act tough, in command, and Presidential Obama. Go whining to the press. Besides, we all know this is a crock of lies. Obama loves to lie, and he doesn't even do it very well, he just has the press to cover for him. Honestly, even I...(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/the_freepatriots_blog/archive/2008/11/10/can-you-believe-this-crap.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Gay Activist Opposes Church Protest</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 19:05:00 GMT</p> via California Conservative: Last month, I posted this letter from fellow retired LAPD officer John Smith. He was one of the first LAPD officers to “come out of the closet” during the early 1990s. In his letter, Smith explained why he voted YES on Proposition 8 and gay protests at churches . John and his partner live in Southern California, and I am honored to consider him a friend. Today, as I listened to the news talking about the Prop 8 protests, I dusted off my retirement shadow box...(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/10/gay-activist-opposes-church-protest.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Obama to give Guantanamo Prisoners Trials in the US</h1> <p>mefree — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 18:09:00 GMT</p> http://www.ksl.com/?nid=126&sid=4752245 Well, he is buddies with terrorists so I guess it only makes sense....(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/the_freepatriots_blog/archive/2008/11/10/obama-to-give-guantanamo-prisoners-trials-in-the-us.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Speak Your Mind Friday (late edition)</h1> <p>Rcougar — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 21:15:00 GMT</p> <p>This is late but why not!</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Gay Marraige Ban Being Challenged</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 19:36:00 GMT</p> via Sweetness-light: City Attys, ACLU Sue Over Gay Marriage Ban From the San Francisco TV station KTLA : L.A., S.F. City Attorneys Challenge Gay Marriage Ban November 5, 2008 LOS ANGELES – The city attorneys of Los Angeles and San Francisco have filed a request for the state Supreme Court to overturn the gay marriage ban. The request was filed Wednesday to invalidate voter approval of Proposition 8, which creates a constitutional amendment defining marriage as between a man and woman. The American...(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/06/gay-marraige-ban-being-challenged.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Dow: Worst Post Election Plunge in History</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 23:00:00 GMT</p> Big shocker.. Businesses know what is coming... http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/election-euphoria-fades-dow-plunges/ Election-Day euphoria vanished in a cloud of negativity on Wednesday as the Dow plummeted almost 500 points, its worst post-election plunge on record. The losses narrowly surpassed the Dow’s 4.51% decline the day after Franklin Roosevelt’s win in 1932 during the Great Depression....(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/05/dow-worst-post-election-plunge-in-history.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Prop 8 - update, Families will be preserved</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 15:33:00 GMT</p> Accourding to KSL, with 52 percent of prec. voting in, it looks like the California Supreme Court ruling will be over turned and the family will once again be preserved. Keep praying. not there yet....(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/05/prop-8-update-families-will-be-preserved.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Ezra Taft Benson, “A Witness and a Warning,”</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 07:13:00 GMT</p> Ezra Taft Benson, “A Witness and a Warning,” Ensign , Nov 1979, 31 The Lord has declared this “a day of warning, and not a day of many words” ( D&C 63:58 ). My message is a witness and warning about some of the evils which threaten America—a land I love with all my heart. There are other countries with this same problem. You who have seen these dangers in the land you love will have a deep feeling for what I will say. America is a place of many great events. Here...(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/05/ezra-taft-benson-a-witness-and-a-warning.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Marion G. Romney, “America’s Promise,”</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 06:15:00 GMT</p> Marion G. Romney, “America’s Promise,” New Era , Mar 1980, 4 During the early part of the 18th century, Samuel F. Smith wrote his great poem: My country! ‘tis of thee, Sweet land of liberty, Of thee I sing; Land where my fathers died, Land of the pilgrim’s pride, From every mountain side, Let freedom ring! My native country, thee, Land of the noble, free, Thy name I love; I love thy rocks and rills, Thy woods and templed hills. My heart with rapture thrills Like that...(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/04/marion-g-romney-america-s-promise.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>All Hail President Elect Barak Hussein Obama</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 05:44:00 GMT</p> http://newsbusters.org/blogs/noel-sheppard/2008/10/25/saturday-funnies-glenn-beck-presents-obamas-national-anthem Enjoy the next 4 year Comrads!...(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/04/all-hail-president-elect-barak-hussein-obama.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Election Day! - live blogging all day</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 14:45:00 GMT</p> Well, the big day is here. Let's get out and vote....(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/04/election-day.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Sounds fair to me..</h1> <p>Splittfinger — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 16:44:00 GMT</p> via Barking Moonbat Early Warning System From His Rottiness Emperor Misha I Dear Fellow Business Owners, As a business owner who employs 30 people, I have resigned myself to the fact that Barack Obama will be our next president, and that my taxes and fees will go up in a BIG way. To compensate for these increases, I figure that the Customer will have to see an increase in my fees to them of about 8 to 10%. I will also have to lay off six of my employees. This really bothered me as I believe we are...(<a href="http://utahpatriots.com/blogs/news/archive/2008/11/03/sounds-fair-to-me.aspx">read more</a>) </article> </main></body></html>