President Monson's Closing Blessing

Cate trusts her father and is
accustomed to being lifted up
to ride on his strong shoulders

Your children's love for you is why they trust and follow and obey you.  This is the formula for their safety and how they are able to learn and progress in life.  That is a great formula.  From the beginnning parents have desired to teach and preserve their teachings for the children and grandchildren.  "And a book of remembrance was kept, in the which was recorded, in the language of Adam, for it was given unto as many as called upon God to write by the spirit of inspiration; And by them their children were taught to read and write..." (Moses 6:5)

However, in our day, parents and children do not spend much time together, and we can't write every thought." And now I, Nephi, cannot write all the things which were taught among my people; neither am I mighty in writing, like unto speaking; for when a man speaketh by the power of the Holy Ghost the power of the Holy Ghost carrieth it unto the hearts of the children of men." 2 Ne. 33: 1

We are entering into an era of trouble on the earth.  Empower your children by your teachings, speakings, and writings to them.  To protect and prepare us, the Lord sends prophets with messages.  Listen to the prophet!

President Thomas S. Monson

We have never seen the President in such a solemn mood. He seemed very anxious for our well being, and concerned that we need to act quickly to put everything in order, and follow the counsel of the prophets. We are in perilous times. To be safe, we must do what the Lord commands so that we can have the Spirit to guide us.

Prophets and Apostles greet after Conference

2 And they all cried with one voice, saying: Yea, we believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us; and also, we know of their surety and truth, because of the Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually.

Read the words of the conference. We send our love and appreciation to all of you everywhere in the world.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ provides meaning and purpose and hope to our lives, and help us meet and overcome our challenges. Our goal is Eternal Life in the presence of a Father in Heaven who loves us. He will bless us as we obey and call upon Him in our prayers.

We are deeply grateful for all you do to further the Kingdom of God on the earth.

Show increased kindness for one another and always be found doing the work of the Lord. I pray for you and leave my blessing in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

The Battle over Man´s God Given Agency

Kenny Renfro

Kenny was the only person willing to go fishing with me during a blizzard in Kansas last winter.  He is very strong and tough.  He learned lessons that day about the dangers of temptation. We successfully tempted the fish, and that was their last lesson in life.  We need to teach our children about the temptations that can destroy their happiness and limit their opportunities.

Elder M. Russell Ballard

The Battle over Man´s God Given Agency

He showed video of a fly fisherman using artificial lures. The test is the pitting of the fisherman´s skill against the experience and skill of the fish. The fisherman is compared to Satan, designing a special lure addressed to your current weakness. Lucifer is a clever, cunning intelligence who is skilled at lying to deceive you.

13 O that ye would awake; awake from a deep sleep, yea, even from the sleep of hell, and shake off the awful chains by which ye are bound, which are the chains which bind the children of men, that they are carried away captive down to the eternal gulf of misery and woe.

Stay away from any substance or behavior that might trap you. Don´t let Satan hook you with artificial lures that make you dependent and lose your agency. Addictive cycles have spiritual cures. Offer your whole soul to Him in fervent prayer. Seek help from LDS Family Services for addiction recovery. You can overcome addictive cravings. Ask for help to overcome the addiction. Ask to be filled with Christ´s pure love. You will be free. 12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Testimony by Example

Janeen, Roy, and Jess Howard

We try to always remember our role as parents, and the duty we have to teach our children those eternal principles of happiness.  The best way to teach is by example, so we have volunteered for full time church service for a short time.  In one year we will return to the fellowship of our family.  Until then, please stay in touch with us in this blog, by email, and Skype.  Please sign up as a "Follower" with Google Friend Connect, so that you will know when we have posted.

"And now remember, remember, my brethren, that whosoever perisheth, perisheth unto himself; and whosever doeth iniquity, doeth it unto himself; for behold, ye are free; ye are permitted to act for yourselves; for behold, God hath given unto you a knowledge and he hath made you free." Helaman 14:30

"We have learned this, that God lives; we have learned that when we call upon him he hears our prayers; we have learned that it is the height of human happiness to fear God and observe his laws and keep his commandments; we have learned that is is a duty devolving upon us to try and make all men happy and intelligent, which happiness and intelligence can only be obtained through obedience to the laws of God.  It is in him that we trust" (The Gospel Kingdom, p. 30).

Elder Mervyn B. Arnold spoke in the General Conference last weekend.

Newlyweds Janeen and Roy with
Roy's parents, Corine and Edward Howard
August, 1970

Testimony by Example

My parents not only left us the legacy of their written testimonies, but also by the way they lived their lives. 6 Behold, my sons, I desire that ye should remember to keep the commandments of God; and I would that ye should declare unto the people these words. Behold, I have given unto you the names of our first parents who came out of the land of Jerusalem; and this I have done that when you remember your names ye may remember them; and when ye remember them ye may remember their works; and when ye remember their works ye may know how that it is said, and also written, that they were good. Therefore, my sons, I would that ye should do that which is good, that it may be said of you, and also written, even as it has been said and written of them.

Come unto Christ and free yourself of all ungodliness. We are not free to choose the consequences of our choices. The commandments and rules protect us from sadness, grief, bitterness, disappointment, and other negative consequences. The grass is not greener on the other side of the fence, wickedness never was happiness. Through the Atonement the Lord is able to invite us thus will ye not now return unto me, and repent of your sins, and be converted, that I may heal you?

Find Rest Unto Your Soul

Let us build up our children in every way that we talk to them every minute of every day.  Genevieve is a very sensitive soul.  She forgives quickly, and loves deeply, but she can be hurt easily.  Love everyone, even you enemies, Jesus said.  Especially work extra hard to teach and nourish your children.

Elder Per G. Malm

Find Rest Unto Your Soul

I saw a tree held up by steel wires attached to buildings. Something had hollowed out the weakened the tree over many years. We can grow step by step like a sapling tree to grow tall and strong and have our soul be filled with light and power. 28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Faith in Jesus Christ and following His teachings gives us hope, lasting inner peace, and the Rest of the Lord.

The thoughts we foster in our minds and hearts and the actions we take now have an effect our our eternal life. If we have the tendency to wait for a future moment to follow God, we will have a bad feeling. We must act before Satan binds us with strong cords. Peace is a gift of God. Wickedness never was happiness.

We can build up or tear down as we speak to our children and those around us. We must invite to do good. Our confidence can wax strong with God. 27 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.

Courageous Parenting

Julian and Cate Skyping Grandma Howard

Courageous Parenting

Elder Larry R. Lawrence

We must warn those we love. Challenges and temptations are coming to our teenagers at the speed of a freight train. Alma counseled his children 9 Now my son, I would that ye should repent and forsake your sins, and go no more after the lusts of your eyes, but cross yourself in all these things; for except ye do this ye can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God. Oh, remember, and take it upon you, and cross yourself in these things. We must not fear that we are offending our children when we counsel them. We must listen to the Spirit and tell them what we feel about their activities. If either parent does not feel good about something, then they should accept the feelings of each other and not allow the activity.

Satan works hard to keep your children from qualifying for the temple and missions, and lead them into misery. We must work hard to help them overcome temptation. Listen to the warning voice. Satan wants to bring them down. Parents must work hard to bring them up.

Family prayer, family scripture study, family home evening, family dinner, family interviews. Counseling requires courage. The Lord blesses and sustains courageous parents.

The Holy Ghost in your Daily Life

Jess, Carlene, Heather, Zane 2010

You have all chosen to be baptized and have made sure your children have been baptized.  All have been confirmed members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. You have been told: "receive the Holy Ghost".

It requires daily effort and lots of practice to tune in to the messages of revelation that the Holy Ghost has for you.

You already had this gift conferred upon you, therefore you qualify to ask God to bless you with peace, inspiration, revelation, guidance, answers to questions, solutions to problems, health, prosperity, talents, success, child rearing, marital relationships, or anything you need for your happiness.

"You may have the administration of angels, you may see many miracles; you may see many wonders in the earth; but I claim that the gift of the Holy Ghost is the greatest gift that can be bestowed upon man" (The Discourses of Wilford Woodfuff, p. 5).

When you realize that your own strength is not enough, you are humbled and therefore qualify to receive great power from the Creator of Heaven and Earth.

Elder David A. Bednar

How to Receive the Holy Ghost in your daily life.

Elder David A. Bednar, Apostle

The Holy Ghost can witness to investigators of the truthfulness of the reality of the Restoration, the truth of the Book of Mormon, and Joseph Smith´s sacred calling. Then they can be baptized and receive the laying on of hands wherewith the Lord can bestow the Gift of the Holy Ghost.

Baptism by immersion must be followed by the Holy Ghost for the ordinance to be complete. It must be done in principles of righteousness.

Pray for this, the most valuable of all gifts. We must earnestly desire and actively invite the companionship of the Holy Ghost into our lives. We do this by actively keep covenants, serving in the Church and the temple, in counsel with our family members, and faithfully obeying God´s commandments, and worthily partaking of the Bread and Water each week.

Everything we are asked to do in the Church is designed to help us qualify to receive this gift in our lives. Praying, studying, gathering, meeting, serving... are habits designed to help us receive the Holy Ghost in our lives. 2 And he was a just man, and he did walk uprightly before God; and he did observe to do good continually, to keep the commandments of the Lord his God; and also did his brother.

Sincerely desire, and appropriately invite the Spirit in our lives. Every individual can qualify for this. I witness that the gifts of the Spirit are in the true and living church today.

Teach traditional Values to the Children

Brandon, Julian, Christopher

As I listened to the Apostle speak of his sons and grandsons receiving the priesthood, I thought of my sons and grandsons.  Each one is precious to me.  Each one has the potential of being a great missionary, husband, and father.  Each one can be raised with the values that prepare him for a life of celebration, joy, and prosperity.  Each one is in danger because of the temptations of the world.  We must work hard at raising our sons so they can achieve their potential.

Elder L. Tom Perry, Apostle

Elder L. Tom Perry

Many of the people in the world today have not been raised with traditional values. Much of the media and technology presented temptations that are degrading. Our children can receive the priesthood and receive blessings from on high, but they must overcome peer pressure and the world.

DyC 107 Why it is called the lesser priesthood is because it is an appendage to the greater, or the Melchizedek Priesthood, and has power in administering outward ordinances. If you will heed the voice of the Holy Ghost, you will experience the ministering of angels. (Elder Perry is addressing his oldest great grandson who has just received the Aaronic Priesthood.)

Young men, build on a foundation of truth and righteousness. Live worthy of the Aaronic Priesthood. It has great power.

The Lord needs you to prepare to declare the Gospel to the world. I know that the Lord will pour out blessings upon you.

Cultivate an attitude of gratitude

Heather with her mother

President Monson reminded me of my first born.  We were so grateful when she came to us in 1971 in Provo, Utah.  Born in the Covenant, she was our hope for the future happiness of our family.  Now she calls regularly to express gratitude for the love we have given her through the years.  Like all of us, she has benefited much from the love and appreciation shown to her in her suffering. As a result, know one can even tell she has ever had a hard day in her life, because being full of gratitude, she exudes confidence and joy, which blesses all those around her.

Be like Heather and cultivate an attitude of gratitude, and all the people you know and all the new ones you meet will be blessed.

President Thomas S. Monson

Cultivate an attitude of gratitude

President Thomas S. Monson

One of my jobs is to be advisor to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir: I am very proud of my choir. My mother said she was proud of me (even though I did not do well in music). I think of the widows and the general authorities and all those who influenced me... including the choir (beautiful music touches me deeply.

Luke 17 And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.

Sincerely giving thanks unlocks the doors and heaven
38 That ye contend no more against the Holy Ghost, but that ye receive it, and take upon you the name of Christ; that ye humble yourselves even to the dust, and worship God, in whatsoever place ye may be in, in spirit and in truth; and that ye live in thanksgiving daily, for the many mercies and blessings which he doth bestow upon you.

Everyone loves Sister Howard

Refuse to remain in the realm of negative thought, and remain in the realm of gratitude, the greatest of all virtues and the parent of all virtues. 16 O that he would rid you from this iniquity and abomination. And, O that ye would listen unto the word of his commands, and let not this pride of your hearts destroy your souls!

Most human beings take things for granted, even those who most need our gratitude. We can minimize the loss of our loved ones by often expressing gratitude to them, for we do not know when it will be too late.

If we reach deeply, we can begin to learn how much we have received. Told a Thanksgiving story of a family who had a good year, did an inventory and and ate with joy. They next year they were poor again, and able to put in perspective the cycle of prosperity and poverty. That also was a great Thanksgiving, because gratitude is a core value that raises your spirit in every circumstance.

Lines of Communication

Lily Howard

Not everyone in our family is a great long distance communicator. They are all very good at direct interpersonal relationships, talking to strangers, making friends with people of other languages and cultures, and getting along with family in person.  I do have hope for Lily.  She is exposed early on to ASL, Spanish, and other languages.  She is surrounded constantly by family and friends who talk constantly to her... but she is is a listener.  Long before she spoke, she observed us and listened.  The first and best step in communicating is learning to listen.

Elder Dallin H. Oaks

Lines of communication

Direct Personal Line.

Elder Dallin H. Oaks

The Holy Ghost testifies of the Father and Son and guides us to truth and knowledge. Personal decisions and family governance come from this personal line. It is not totally independent of the priesthood line nor does it come only through belief. You must receive the priesthood through proper channels, stay worthy and renew covenants with the Sacrament, and always avoid temptation and resist the adversary.

Priesthood Line.

Because of the Atoning Sacrifice, the Lord can prescribe the way to qualify for these blessings, which include obedience to commandments, completion of ordinances, and enduring to the end. We receive callings and ordinances and receive instruction and organize to help the poor through the priesthood line.

Those who reject the need for organized religion reject the work of the Lord who has always organized a church. "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness."

The leaders and prophets in the Church cannot function in their calling unless they maintain themselves humble and pure. And thou shalt teach them ordinances and laws, and shalt shew them the way wherein they must walk, and the work that they must do.

At the time of devastation of Chile with terrible earthquakes, the priesthood line was not sufficient to meet all the needs. Each person had to pray and seek comfort and direction for themselves and their family.

We must use both the priesthood line and the personal line of communication, so we can achieve eternal destiny through personal growth.

Covenant People

Luke and Annie Williams

When Sister Cook represented the Young Women, I was reminded that I have five grand daughters.  I am depending on their parents to raise them well, as I am more certain every day that my grand daughters will be key to my survival in the uncertain world of the future.  


Your daughters are so important: Cate, Annie, Hannah, Genevieve, and Lily are not only your daughters, they are my grandchildren, daughters of a loving Heavenly Father, and the future mothers of YOUR grandchildren.


Whatever challenges you face in your relationships, or in teaching your children, FACE THEM.  The stakes are high.  We want every one of our children and grandchildren to learn how to make the choices that will keep them safe, and to learn how to make those covenants that will allow them to access the greatest of their potential.


Mary N. Cook
Second Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency

Mary Cook

We are a covenant people.



Parents and teachers, your example must be clear. You are raising tomorrow´s leaders. You must be pure by following the Gospel principles of faith, repentance, baptism, the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end by keeping covenants. The teachings of the home and Church with help your children keep standards that help them overcome temptation and have peace and prosperity in a dangerous world.

"The Kingdom of our God, that is set upon the earth, does not require men of many words and flaming oratorical talents, to establish truth and righteousness. It is not the many words that accomplish the designs of our Father in Heaven, with him it is the acts of the people more than their words; this I was convinced of before I embraced the gospel". (Brigham Young)

Revelation

Temple Housing, Guayaquil

As I sat with my wife and friends in the temple housing to watch General Conference I was impressed that the speakers remembered the children.  We also remember our children and their children.  We love our grandchildren and pray that they will all be protected and guided by the Spirit in righteousness and truth.

Cate Howard on her eighth birthday

Here is a screen shot of me in Ecuador talking to Cate in San Francisco on her eighth birthday.  I was baptized at age eight by my father on 4 August 1956 and confirmed the next day.  Now I  am involved 5 days per week in the baptistry of the temple.  Whenever I lay my hands on someone and confirm them a member of the of the Church (proxy) I make a special emphasis when I pronounce the words: "receive the Holy Ghost", and I think of my grandchildren, and pray that they might be willing to receive this great gift from God and learn to use it to bless their lives.

Elder Jay E. Jensen, Presidency of the Seventy



When the Savior visited the Americas he gave the Holy Ghost. As many as possible came to hear Him. While waiting, they taught others the Holy Ghost and prayed to receive it. The Lord prayed to the Father to appreciate the giving of this great gift to the people. It is available to all who qualify to receive the Gospel and baptism.

President Jay E. Jensen

He witnessed of a time that the Holy Ghost comforted his family when a child died. They remain comforted and reassured to this day.

He compared Joseph Smith and Lehi and their experiences to show that we are also qualified to receive revelation. As we read in 1 Nephi, we learn that men, women and children can receive a witness of the Spirit and revelation that they need.

We can control our choices

We were fortunate during the crisis in Ecuador to not lose any utility services.  We stayed connected, and were even able to view all five sessions of General Conference on the internet.

Roy Zane Howard in
San Francisco

As I listened to Elder Packer talk about the consequences of our choices, I was reminded of my Grandpa Lambert's Grandpa Lambert.  He and his brother joined the church in England during a time of persecution against anyone not of the official church.  They traveled together as young men, arriving in Nauvoo on a raft they built to float down the Mississippi River.  They were body guards to Joseph Smith, Seventies serving missions, and builders of the temple.  John went west with Brigham Young.  Most of his descendants to the 7th generation have been blessed by being born in the Covenant, and taught principles of righteousness that uplift and strengthen them.  His brother stayed in Nauvoo with another church, and all of his descendants for 7 generations have missed those priesthood blessings.

 When my first son was born, I held him in my arms, was filled with love and gratitude, and decided to give him my name, which I received from my Grandpa Lambert.  Every time he signs his name, he is reminded of his pioneer heritage, and the testimonies of his ancestors that were the foundation of their choices.  Every time he looks out the window across the bay he sees the temple where I first took out my endowments, and is reminded that he was born into a Covenant that seals him to his parents.  Therefore, he knows we love him and are interested in everything he does.  He is reminded that the choices we make affect us and thousands of will come after us and are of concern to thousands of others who came before.  We are family.

President Boyd K. Packer

President Boyd K. Packer

 We, the first presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of His children.

 All human beings -- male and female--are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny. Gender is an essential characteristic of individual pre-mortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose.

Agency is precious. We can give away our agency, we can yield to temptation, but no power in heaven, earth, or hell can make us do anything we don´t choose to do.

16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.  Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours; And ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's.

Oakland Temple,
as seen from San Francisco

We are free to ignore the commandments, but when the creator of Heaven and Earth says, ¨thou shalt not¨, we had better pay attention. For example, in our day, the influence of pornography is like a plague that is spiritually fatal. Pornography will always destroy our family relationships as well as our contact with God. By the principle of obedience, your priesthood leaders can help you overcome all things. The standard of moral behavior we teach will protect you from danger. Wickedness never was happiness. 13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

Moral standards cannot be changed by ballot or legislation. We will hold to the principles and laws and ordinances of the Gospel. We quickly lose our way when we do not live the principles and ordinances of the Gospel.  "In these latter days, the Lord revealed that 'when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated' (D&C 130:21). The Lord makes generous promises, and He certifies that He will not vary from these promises, for, said He, 'I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise' (D&C 82:10)."

Repentance is the key to returning to favor with God. 17 But if they would not repent they must suffer even as I; Which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit -- and would that I might not drink the bitter cup, and shrink -- Nevertheless, glory be to the Father, and I partook and finished my preparations unto the children of men. Wherefore, I command you again to repent, lest I humble you with my almighty power; and that you confess your sins, lest you suffer these punishments of which I have spoken, of which in the smallest, yea, even in the least degree you have tasted at the time I withdrew my Spirit.

The most difficult part of repentance is to forgive yourself. However, it is not our choice. God does have the power we lack to achieve forgiveness. Don´t look back. Move on in your new life and don´t return to contemplate, worry about, or repeat your sins.

Trust the Lord

We attended 5 sessions of the General Conference this weekend, all on internet from our apartment in Guayaquil. P.S. The uprising of the Police is over, and the country is getting back to normal. We will open the temple on Tuesday on schedule.

Guayaquil, Ecuador Temple

I wanted to share the notes I took in conference on Sunday.  For example, this one reminds me of my Autobiography: "Shake It: A Letter to My Children and Grandchildren" in which I quote every scripture I can find about shaking, because when I wrote it I was shaking so much from Parkinson's Disease.  I was declared unable to work by quite a few doctors and Social Security declared me disabled.  That made me humble enough to shift my trust to the Lord instead of my own strength, and He qualified me for a service assignment in the temple in Ecuador.  We had to trust the Lord in order to accept this simple assignment, which at this point in our health, and considering the needs of our family, took a lot of faith.

Carlene Howard Williams, 2010

Now that we are here, we trust that the Lord will continue to help us get to our assignment.  We trust the Lord will also bless you and your families.  Trust the Lord enough to ask what He wants you to know and do. He will make the way possible.

This amazing image of an amazing person was captured on my computer lately while we were connected to Kansas via Skype.  Sign up for Skype and call us at rnjhoward.  We tried to trust the Lord in all we did to raise Carlene, and know that she can teach her family to trust the Lord as they address the challenges of living in the 21st Century.  Have enough trust in Him to ask, and he will let you know what to do.

President Henry B. Eyring, 1st Presidency

"I prayed to know your personal needs so I would know what to say. God knows you personally and sends you messages fitted to you. Alma said "O that I were an angel, and could have the wish of mine heart, that I might go forth and speak with the trump of God, with a voice to shake the earth, and cry repentance unto every people! For behold, the Lord doth grant unto all nations, of their own nation and tongue, to teach his word, yea, in wisdom, all that he seeth fit that they should have; therefore we see that the Lord doth counsel in wisdom, according to that which is just and true."

President Eyring

God sends personal messages and authorized general messages to His children. My job is to build your confidence in His servants so you will be able to receive the messages.

Lucifer has had great success in inciting rebellion because he communicates well with those who lack faith to trust God.

We should be willing to do everything that Jesus commands us to do. All His commandments are important and help prepare us to live with our Father in Heaven. The Bible tells a story about a man named Naaman. He was very sick and wanted a prophet named Elisha to heal him. He left his home and went to the country where Elisha lived. Elisha sent a messenger to tell Naaman to wash himself seven times in a river called Jordan, and he would be healed.  Naaman was angry when he was told to do this. He wondered why he should go to the Jordan River, since there were many great rivers where he lived. But even though he was angry, Naaman later decided to obey. Because he obeyed, he was healed. If he had not obeyed, he would not have been healed.

Peter lacked faith to walk on the water... Jesus went unto them walking on the sea... But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

Nephi learned to trust the Lord. 7 And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them. And it came to pass that when my father had heard these words he was exceedingly glad, for he knew that I had been blessed of the Lord.

Joseph Smith learned to trust the Lord and received visits from on high. He learned that God loves us and sends messengers to lead and guide those who trust God.

When the prophet said we should get out of debt, even to get out of our mortgages, my wife and I prayed and asked the Lord for help. I sold my property the next day, even though it is been listed for years with no inquiries. The offer was enough to pay off the mortgage.

Trust the Lord enough to know what He wants you to know and do. He will make the way possible. What I the Lord hath spoken.. shall be fulfilled.. whether by my voice or my servants it is the same... Trust God enough to listen for the voice of God in every sermon and you will find it. Do what you are told to do, and you will find that God will trust you.

Music and the Spoken Word

Corla, Anita, Roy, Corine Howard 1964

I was raised in a home with music all around.  My mother played records of classical and Western and religious and all kinds of music.  She took me to choir practice where she was the accompanist.  She supported me in the various instruments I learned to play.  We sang around the organ every evening.

Sunday Mornings we listened to the radio broadcast "Music and the Spoken Word". Today you can listen to the broadcast anytime online.

http://www.musicandthespokenword.com/

Here you can go directly to read the messages of your choice:

http://www.musicandthespokenword.com/messages/

The first broadcast of Music and the Spoken Word was on a hot summer afternoon in the Tabernacle on Temple Square, July 15, 1929. The announcer climbed a ladder to speak into the one and only microphone, suspended from the ceiling. He stayed perched on the ladder throughout the half-hour program. An audio engineer was alerted by telegraph when to start. Hand signals cued the announcer. He began: "From the crossroads of the West, we welcome you to a program of inspirational music and spoken word." Those words, from more than seven decades ago, still open the program.

Mormon Tabernacle Choir

Today Music and the Spoken Word has become the world's longest-running continuous network broadcast and is carried on more than 2,000 radio and television stations and cable systems. It has been broadcast from locations across the country and around the world. 

Culture Quiz

This is the dollar coin in circulation in Ecuador

I am trying to learn the culture of Ecuador by talking to the people and asking questions: 


Tell me the color of Simón Bolivar's white horse.


What is the significance of the Battle of Pichincha?


Who is buried in the tomb of Abdón Calderón. 


I remind them of how Manuela Cañizares hosted in her home the discussions about independence. After the leaders of the Independence signed the documents, they went outside shouting "¡Viva la Independencia!" In whose home in Quito did they sign the documents? 


Ecuador uses U.S. Currency since the end of the Sucre on September 11, 2000


Tell me about the face that is on the dollar bill


Who is that lady on the dollar coin and why is she famous?


Name her son and her husband.


Name her tribe.

Good People Get Blessings

Campesinos live in stilted shacks
above the flood waters and the animals

Many in Ecuador work long hours for low wages, resulting in humility.  "And now when Alma heard this, he turned him about, his face immediately towards him, and he beheld with great joy; for he beheld that their afflictions had truly humbled them, and that they were in a preparation to hear the word." Alma 32:6  "Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him." Acts 10:34-35

Howard W. Hunter, 14th Church President

When people see my name, they try to imagine some other Howard, such as Howard Johnson Hotel, or the Prophet Howard W. Hunter, the 14th president of the Church.  They wonder if I am related.  Maybe I should claim him, as he had a great haircut and, was a professional musician.  His band played on a cruise ship in Asia before his mission.

"To save even our material prosperity, we must show more interest in moral and spiritual values.  When civilizations have a decline in moral and spiritual values, material greatness begins to disintegrate.

Fishing at Taura for Tilapia and Catfish

"If we want to conserve our economic security, we must focus an increased amount of time and interest on strengthening our human values. A nation is not made great by its fruitful acres, its great forests, and its rich mineral deposits, but by the men who cultivate the farms, fell the trees, and operate the mines.  That nation is greatest which produces the largest number of men dedicated to the loftiest ideals of the human race" (The Teachings of Howard W. Hunter, p. 168).

Members from Esmeraldas
serve often in the temple

Our fishing guide at Taura and the owner of the Shrimp Farm are Pentecostal Christians, who live correct principles and teach their families to love and serve God.  They are happy.  True humility prepares people to receive the Gospel and the blessings of the temple.

Fishing

See http://fishitah.blogspot.com for more information about my latest fishing trip.

Tropical birds and vegetation are appreciated more on a fishing trip

We caught hundreds I think, all by hook and shrimp bait

Friends

Dear friends Walker and Margarita Andrade,
Diana Linda Verduga with Sister and Elder Howard

Our friends come often to visit, or we visit them, or we go with them.  Today the Vera and Sánchez families dine at our place.  Monday I go with with 4 hermanos to fish while Sister Howard is with the ladies. "A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity". Proverbs 17:17

"And now my son, Shiblon, I would that ye should remember, that as much as ye shall put your trust in God even so much ye shall be delivered out of your trials, and your troubles, and your afflictions, and ye shall be lifted up at the last day." Alma 38:5

"I will try to be contented with my lot, knowing that God is my friend.  In him I shall find comfort.  I have given my life into his hands.  I am prepared to go at his call.  I desire to be with Christ.  I count not my life dear to me [except] to do his will" (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, p. 243-244).

Templo de Guayaquil, Ecuador

Elder and Sister Howard, Temple Missionaries, Ecuador

This is where we work every day, except Sunday and Monday.  This Sunday we attended the Kennedy Stake Conference in Guayaquil and learned that we should take care of the elderly. Of course, mostly the testimonies were about the Gospel of Jesus Christ:

Elder Howard plays in a string quartet

I tuned the piano and arranged the music for string quartet and piano to accompany the 50 voice Urbanor Ward Choir.  I wish I had a recording or photo.  Everyone really enjoyed the beautiful music.  Since there is no organ, the strings help make the accompaniment better for such a large gathering (900).

Since there was no violist in the stake, I bought a viola, and played it for the conference.  Until now I have been playing second violin, like I did in Deming.  I don't have a bass violin here like I did from 1976 to 2008.  Now I have to teach someone else how to play the viola.  I teach music lessons about 6 days per week now: piano, guitar, violin so far.

We live in the Alojamiento on the temple grounds.  Hundreds
of people from all over the country stay here when they come
to work in the temple, usually for one, two, or more nights.

Here is where I am gathering the arrangements and compositions I create in Ecuador:
http://www.cantos.org/music/ecuador

I have made arrangements for several choirs since arriving, including a choir in Kansas.

My new Viola along with a borrowed violin.

Happy Birthday Cate

Happy Birthday, Cate.  I am glad I got to see you tonight in San Francisco.

Here is my new fishing video: http://www.youtube/drrhoward
I am going fishing next Monday also.

Julian is doing Water Polo and Crew in high school.  It is very difficult compared to junior high school athletics!

Cate is swimming.  She might get into water polo.

Zane plays basketball on Wednesday nights.

Making Mistakes

The plastic bowl melted on the burner

Every ordinance in the temple is officially observed by "witnesses" who listen and watch for mistakes.  For example, any baptism must be repeated if the person is not completely submersed.  Yesterday I was complemented by a brother who was baptizing, as I was able to immediately correct him if he left out a word or made a small change.  He said I was a good listener.  I responded: I recognize the mistakes, as I am so used to them, as I make so many myself.

Did you ever fall out of bed?

When I first arrived I told people that I was a fast learner, because I am not afraid to make mistakes.  I don't worry about what people will think of me or say of my mistakes.  In a new situation I just make as many mistakes as possible, and try to learn from my mistakes.

Cameraman chooses a poor pose

"Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seen times?  Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven." Matthew 18:21-22

It tasted good.  The next day she learned
that it was a mistake to trust the food
bought from a street vendor.

I do make mistakes.  I try to learn from them, but sometimes I just get in the habit of making the same ones over and over.  My father called that "our favorite sins".  I teach my piano students to work and study and change until the section is played without mistakes, then repeat it over and over.  Practice that makes perfect is repeating it after you finally get it right.

It is a mistake to think that every smile
reflects a friendly soul and a safe friend.

Once you can do it right, practice that.  If you notice that others make mistakes, you will be happier if you do not take responsibility for correcting them.  However, if you are the teacher, it is your responsibility to look for mistakes as clues for how to correct the problem.  I tell my music students that I want to hear their mistakes, so I can see how to help them find solutions.

If you repent, you can qualify for the temple

"There are those who will make mistakes.  There are those among us today that have gone astray, but they are the children of our Lord and he loves them.  He has given you and to me the right to go to them in kindness and love and with patience and with a desire to bless, seek to win them from the mistakes that they are making" (The Teachings of George Albert Smith, p. 145).