The Secret of Life!

David Gerrord reveals it in his short story, "A Quantum Bit Exists in Two States Simultaneously: On".
Folks wanting to know the "secret of life" first should realize that it's no secret.
It's just this - you can't expect folks to find the secret of (their purpose in) life just by telling them.
First, you must show them what it looks like.
That's all.

The Power of Persistence

Nothing can replace persistence and determination.
Unsuccessful talent is common.
Unrewarded genius is common.
Educated derelicts are common.
Persistence and determination are uncommon.

Nephi Knew Too!

Frequently, some concerned friends, family, and associates who know some of my history, will marvel aloud to me about how well I've dealt with what they see as major life trials and tribulations.
They then oft times go on to further wonder and ask me about the source of my positive perspective and how I find so much for which to be grateful.
My response to them is always the same, that they don't see the whole picture of how much I also have been blessed, but Nephi, a pre-Columbian American disciple of Christ described my viewpoint and philosophy much better:
"I, Nephi,...having seen many afflictions in the course of my days, nevertheless having been highly favored of the Lord in all my days; yea, having a great knowledge of the goodness and the mysteries of God...". (Book of Mormon, 1 Nephi, Chapter 1, Verse 1)
And so it goes.
For a free copy of the Book of Mormon, call 1-888-537-2200 (at any hour).

"Desert Pete" by Billy Edd Wheeler

(Originally shared with me many years ago by David Heatwole in Cumberland, Maryland, and originally popularized in a song by the Kingston Trio)

"I was travelin' West, a buckskin, on my way to a cattle run,
Cross a little cactus desert, under the hot blisterin' sun;
I was thirsty down to my toenails; thought I'd rest me on a stump,
But I tell ya, I just couldn't believe it when I saw that water pump.

I took it to be a mirage at first (it'll fool a thirsty man!);
But then I saw a note stuck in a bakin' powder can.
"This pump is old", the note began, "but she works, so give her a try.
I put a new sucker washer in 'er; ya may find the leather dry."

"You've got to prime the pump, you must have faith, and believe.
You've got to give of yourself, 'fore you're worthy to receive.
Drink all the water you can hold, wash your face, cool your feet;
Leave the bottle full for others. Thank ya kindly." --- Desert Pete

"Yeh, you'll have to prime the pump. Work that handle like there's a fire.
Under that rock you'll find some water I left in a bitters jar.
Now there's just enough to prime it with, so don'cha go drinkin' first;
Just pour it in, and pump like mad, and buddy, you'll quench yer thirst."

Well, I found that jar, and I'll tell ya, nothin' ever was purtier to my eyes;
An' I was tempted strong to drink it, 'cause that pump looked mighty dry.
But the note went on, "have faith my friend, there's water down below;
You'll have to give until ya get. I'm the one who ought to know."

So I poured in the jar, an' I started to pump, an' I heard a beautiful sound,
Of water, bubblin' an' splashin', up outta that hole in the ground.
So I took off my shoes, an' I drunk my fill of that cool, refreshin' treat;
An' I thank the Lord, an' I thank the pump, an' I thank ol' Desert Pete!

See also in Bible - John 4: 10, 2 Kings 5: 10-14, Numbers 21: 7-9, John 1: 39 & John 3: 14, and in the Book of Mormon - Helaman 8: 14, and 1 Nephi 17: 41.

For a free copy of the King James Bible,a free copy of the Book of Mormon,and much more call 1-800-438-7757

Insights on Independence Day

Recently, when a well-meaning government employee with political connections suggested to me that I should desist from "stirring the pot" in regard to matters of good governance, particularly within the Maryland Division of Correction (my employer), it surprised me, but also caused me to pause and ponder upon my own motivations as well as the consequences thereof to the subsequent actions and reactions.
A tenet of my faith is that "...governments were instituted of God for the benefit of man; and that he holds men accountable for their acts in relation to them, both in making laws and administering them, for the good and safety of society." (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Doctrine & Covenants Section 133, Verse 1)
Reflecting today, Independence Day, about this issue and also upon the origin and purpose of our government, I was further reminded that God has instructed us to "continue to importune for redress, and redemption, by the hands of those who are placed as rulers and are in authority over you - According to the laws and constitution of the people, which (God has) suffered to be established, and should be maintained for the rights and protection of all flesh, according to just and holy principles; That every man may act in doctrine and principle pertaining to futurity, according to the moral agency that I have given him, that every man may be accountable for his own sins on the day of judgement....And for this purpose have I established the Constitution of this land, by the hands of wise men whom I have raised up unto this very purpose, and redeemed the land by the shedding of blood...(likening us) unto the parable of the woman and the unjust judge,
for men ought always to pray and not to faint..."
(LDS Church, D&C Section 101, Verses 76-81).
And so it goes.