Mormons and non-Mormons alike are mourning Sunday’s senseless and tragic death of Bishop Clay Sannar, age 42, of the Visalia California Ward congregation, of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Bishop Sannar had only been serving in his lay ministry calling a few months. While doing paperwork in his church office after morning services on Sunday August 29, a man who was “visibly upset” walked into the chapel, and asked to see “someone in charge”. When taken to Sannar, (more…)
To say I do a lot of reading would be an understatement. Books, magazines, newspapers, blog posts, articles, commentary…online and offline…you name it, I can be found turning, flipping, scanning and scrolling down. Often during these ‘word feasts’ I come across a quote that sticks in my brain, and then churns around and around until it’s soft, and warm, and smooth as homemade butter taffy. (more…)
On May 1, 2003 husband, father, son and friend, US Army Pfc. Jesse Givens died in Iraq in the service of his country. He was 34 years old. Givens was parked in an M-1 main battle tank alongside the bank of the Euphrates River in Al Habbaniyah, Iraq. The riverbank gave way, resulting in the tank falling into the river. His comrades tried desperately and unsuccessfully to free him. Ironically, Pfc. Jesse A. Givens drowned in the desert. Givens was assigned to 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colorado. He had shipped out just 3 weeks prior to his death, on April 6th. Two weeks prior to his death, he wrote a final letter, and mailed it to his wife Melissa, his five year-old son Dakota (nicknamed ‘Toad’) and his unborn child Carson (nicknamed ‘Bean’)
Last Letter pg1
The final letter arrived a month after the funerals, memorial services and gun salutes. It came in the mail, and delivered to Melissa Givens in the maternity ward, where she had just given birth to the son Jesse Givens would never hold….
“He called me a week before [his death] and told me he had written the letter, but not to open it unless he died,” Melissa Givens said.
Male Vocal Group - Cantus
Out of this tragedy, Pfc. Givens last letter home has made a tremendous impact on thousands of strangers. Something he certainly didn’t intend, and never could have imagined.
Since 2003, the letter has been published in the New York Times, and featured in the HBO Documentary Film ”The Last Letters Home“. In 2006, the mens vocal ensemble Cantus commissioned composer Lee Hoiby to write a song for them. Mr. Hoiby received permission from Melissa Givens to set the words of the letter to music. It was originally written for a men’s trio of voices (1 Tenor, 2 Baritones). Later, it was set into a full choral work.
Last Family Photo: April 6, 2003
Listening to Lee Hoiby’s setting of Jesse Givens’ letter, Erick Lichte [director of Cantus] says he’s especially touched by the closing lines: “Go outside and look at the stars and count them. Don’t forget to smile.”
“The hopefulness and the love of life that’s expressed in his words is immeasurable, It’s almost too much to bear.”
As we prepare to lay 2009 to rest, this seems a fitting tribute of remembrance. I hope that as we each step boldly into 2010, we will include the resolve not to take our freedom for granted. May the death of Pfc. Givens and all of his fallen brothers and sisters of the armed forces not be in vain. May the living sacrifice of the surviving families, friends, and fellow enlisted servicemen & women be forever honored.
Last Letter pg2
“…I searched all my life for a dream and I found it in you. . . . The happiest moments in my life all deal with my little family…I’ll be in the sun, shadows, dreams, and joys of your life…There is so much more I need to say, so much more I need to share. A million lifetimes’ worth. I married you for a million lifetimes. That’s how long I will be with you… “
I pray that Givens’ faith, hope, and love of family will live on in each of us.
On the 16th Day it isn’t always enough … to smile and grin and try to be tough… A post on coping with Grief and Loss at Christmas time.
For many days I have been posting regular messages of joy, glory, praise and holiday cheer as we ‘countdown to Christmas’. I plan to continue! Today, my message of hope and praise is just a little different from the norm. I wish to acknowledge the suffering that often accompanies this time of year when empty chairs and broken hearts seem especially out of place.
Suffering from the loss of a loved one at any time of the year is difficult, yet during the holidays or on other special occasions, the grieving experience has a more intense sense of loss. The world is moving forward, celebrating life and all its blessings, yet for those who grieve, a dark shadow pervades the holiday.
If you’re mourning a loss this Christmas, the holiday glam and seasonal lights can make you feel terrible … You’re not alone if you’re dealing with death – Grieving at Christmas
Every person’s grief becomes a very different and personal journey. There is no “one size fits all” guide to getting through the holidays, or to healing. Sadly, there is no magic wand that can make ‘everything ok’. According to Kay Talbot, PhD. one should expect “sudden Grief Attacks”, exhaustion, disruption, emotional “echos”, “if only’s”, “Should have’s”, anger, fear, and deep, soul searching questions. These are just a few of the many faces and stages of grief. Several books have been devoted just to getting through the holidays after a death.
However, there is an assurance that life will get better. Of course, it will never be the same as before. But, gradually we can each feel stronger and more in charge of our life.
“Death leaves a heartache difficult to heal ~~ Love leaves sweet memories no one can steal”
Epitaph on a tombstone in Ireland, dated 1889
Cori Connors
Two years ago I had the priviledge of attending a Christmas concert being given by an LDS folk singer named Cori Connors. I was enchanted with her warm personality, her generous spirit, and her deeply moving lyrics. Cori’s songs bubble with life. They include the joyful moments, but she is not afriad to explore the many not-so-happy challenges of mortality. I love Cori’s songs. They’re real. They’re honest. And, they’re intimite. One of these songs, entitled “You Would Have Loved This” was written at Christmas, following the death of Cori’s mother-in-law. That particular song has been running through my mind so much lately that I decided it really wanted to be a MoSop Movie, and that this topic really needed be posted!
It is my hope that Cori’s words, and music can help heal something inside each of us.
Cori Connors
Cori Connors:
Not long ago, when my family had gathered together at my mom’s house, we set up the old brown card table in the middle of the living room. Out from the cupboards and bookcases came boxes and albums full of old family photos. Those photos called up memories for all of us, some painful, but mostly sweet. They were a tangible representation of all that brought us to where we are today.
Richard Exley said…”Experience again the full range of emotion memories invoke. Let them play a nostalgic melody on the strings of your heart. Remember the warmth of a special friendship, the comfort of kindness, the closeness of family. Think about the Christ Child in Bethlehem’s manger and the nearness of God. Blink back the tears, if need be, and swallow past the fist sized lump in your throat, but don’t quench the memories. They are a part of your history, part of the web of experience which God has woven into the tapestry of your personhood.”
I have counted the years by Christmases, written on a series of envelopes and papers, and set to music in the wee silent hours at home. These songs are the pages of my scrapbook. My love and thanks to family and friends who embedded themselves in my heart.
The following MoSop Movie was created with all those in mind who have some hurt to endure, tenderness of soul, or pain of heart. It is my wish that you will find joy in your memories, and much sweetness amidst the sorrow. I’m sorry I do not have the right words to say to take your particular pain away. But, I offer up a song, and a prayer, and my love.
Mormon musician Paul Cardall was born in 1973 with a severe congenital heart defect. He has undergone countless surgeries, and is currently wait-listed for a heart transplant. This is his last hope. He dreams of living long enough to raise his little girl Eden alongside his beautiful wife Lynette.
Ironically, Paul possesses an exceptional art for healing others. Despite his failing health, he remains an unfailing inspiration and source of hope. He uses his musical gifts to comfort, bless and heal the world one person at a time. Paul doesn’t get to the piano much these days, but when he does, the music comes straight from his broken heart.
This week, I was extremely touched by his new composition entitled “Gracie’s Theme“. Paul shared his thoughts on this piece:
“Over the years I have been deeply affected by other sick children. One particular child was Gracie, a baby who passed after a failed heart transplant. It’s heartbreaking to watch parents fight to keep their children alive only to see them slowly slip back into Gods loving arms. However, it is inspiring to witness children whove been fortunate to continue their journey in this life. I am one of those. Regardless of the outcome it seems these experiences teach the value of life and how fragile it truly is. We live for a short while, but in the end we all go home to that God who gave us life.”
Paul Cardall received his heart transplant, and is doing fabulous! What an inspiration and miracle he is. A benefit concert is planned for Feb. 15th, 2009. See video!:
On Thursday May 28, 2009 it was announced that one of the great philosophers and historians of Mormonism, Truman G. Madsen passed on to the next life, succombing to cancer. Members of the church, and LDS Bloggers worldwide are bidding him a fond farewell. This post pays my tribute to a great man, and a great mind, who leaves a lasting legacy.
“‘To be or not to be?’ That is not the question. What is the question? The question is not one of being, but of becoming. ‘To become more or not to become more. This is the question faced by each intelligence in our universe.” – Madsen, Eternal Man
Madsen was a beloved and honored contributor to Mormon scholarship and education. He taught for 37 years at Brigham Young University,
“A little boy, I’m told, wrote a letter to God (this is published in a collection of children’s letters). It said, “Dear God, How do you feel about people who don’t believe in you? A friend of mine wants to know.” Recently I was invited to sit in on a graduate class elsewhere–a group most critical and equipped with jaw-breaking terminology and bone-breaking arguments against religion.
Jesus Christ
At one point I said, “So I’ll know where you’re coming from, would each person here consider: If you had only one question to address to Jesus Christ, what would you ask him?” Well, most of those in the room had a grievance and said that they would ask a kind of “pick-a-fight” question. But one lad, in the corner, didn’t respond, and, having been urged, finally said with a thoughtful smile, “Well, if I had only one question, I would ask, ‘How am I doing?”’ – Madsen, On How We Know
Jerusalem Center
His in-depth study of the Life of Christ, lectures recorded and filmed on location in the Holy Land, were of great fascination and education to me personally. These lectures greatly enhanced my experience and deepened my personal witness of Jesus the Christ, as I participated in a BYU Study Abroad program to Jerusalem in 1986 – 87. Additional links to Madsen’s work, and videos can be found at the official Truman Madsen Website. Other links and a bio can be found at the Truman G. Madsen Wiki Page.
I was hopeful to find a video version of Madsen’s lecture on Gethsemane, entitled The Olive Press, which had a tremendous impact on me. Madsen truly had a grasp of The Atonement on a higher level than the rank and file:
“The greatest tragedy of life is that, having paid that awful price of suffering “according to the flesh that his bowels might be filled with compassion,” and being now prepared to reach down and help us, he is forbidden because we won’t let him. We look down instead of up.” – Madsen, The Highest In Us,
Sadly, there is not much offered by and about Truman Madsen on YouTube (yet). He possessed such a unique persona and voice, that it is a delight to see him speaking, as well as hear and read his words. The video I have attached (getting a lot of play time in the past 24 hours) offers a great sample of Madsen’s riveting storytelling and talent as a master teacher. Here, he details the beginning of the practice of polygyny instituted by the prophet Joseph Smith in Nauvoo (filmed on location in Nauvoo).
God bless your next adventure in the great beyond, Brother Madsen! No doubt, you are already instructing and teaching the angels in their heavenly duties. - MoSop
Brother Madsen
“My testimony to you is that you have come literally “trailing clouds of glory”. If you only knew who you are and what you did and how you earned the privileges of mortality and not just of mortality but of this time, this place, this dispensation, and the associates that have been meant to cross and intertwine with your lives…what in my bitter moments I call this spook alley of mortality…if you knew the latent infinite power that is locked up and hidden for your own good now – you would never again yield to any of the putdowns that are a dime a dozen in our culture today.” – Madsen, The Highest In Us
Please join with me in a moment of silence for my Motherboard.
I sent her in last week for some basic upgrades, including a snazzy new hard drive with lots of “Gigs” and “Bytes”, so MoSop could save even more photos, and become a speedier blogging queen. The family was also tired of receiving continual “exception errors” and “low memory” warnings every time they logged in.
But unfortunately, there were complications. (more…)
God our Father has a Gameplan, and we’re all on the team! If He had a “playbook”, He might borrow a few play titles straight from daytime TV; “As The World Turns“, “One Life To Live“, “Guiding Light“, and “All My Children“. He could certainly include “Search For Tomorrow“, and “Another World“. For simplicity, this is Our Family Story.I love hearing, and sharing, and reading and telling the story of our Heavenly Father’s plan. I’m in good company, too. Apostle and scholar, (more…)
This video highlights prophetic words of modern Latter-day prophets and apostles spoken over the past 30 years, up to the present. Our world is undergoing rapid change, much of which is destructive, catastrophic and devastating. People everywhere are suffering pain, discouragement and fear. However, there is HOPE, even in these dark and troubled times. God desires to lead each of us to higher ground. Listen to these timely and prophetic words of warning, love and peace. Remember, The Lord has promised;
God our Father has a Gameplan, and we’re all on the team! If He had a “playbook”, He might borrow a few play titles straight from daytime TV; “As The World Turns“, “One Life To Live“, “Guiding Light“, and “All My Children“. He could certainly include “Search For Tomorrow“, and “Another World“. For simplicity, this [...]
A very historic and sacred event in history was commemorated this weekend. In June 1978 the Priesthood was extended to “every worthy male” member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I remember that prophetic day. I would have been 12 years old. My mother picked me up from school and told me [...]
We have been experiencing a little taste of spring weather lately in Northern Utah. The other day it was unresistable, and I had to get out and enjoy it while it lasted! I believe I made my dog the happiest
According to 
“Over the years I have been deeply affected by other sick children. One particular child was Gracie, a baby who passed after a failed heart transplant. It’s heartbreaking to watch parents fight to keep their children alive only to see them slowly slip back into Gods loving arms. However, it is inspiring to witness children whove been fortunate to continue their journey in this life. I am one of those. Regardless of the outcome it seems these experiences teach the value of life and how fragile it truly is. We live for a short while, but in the end we all go home to that God who gave us life.”
“The greatest tragedy of life is that, having paid that awful price of suffering “according to the flesh that his bowels might be filled with compassion,” and being now prepared to reach down and help us, he is forbidden because we won’t let him. We look down instead of up.” – Madsen, 
~~~~~~~~~~~~
God our Father has a Gameplan, and we’re all on the team! If He had a “playbook”, He might borrow a few play titles straight from daytime TV; “As The World Turns“, “One Life To Live“, “Guiding Light“, and “All My Children“. He could certainly include “Search For Tomorrow“, and “Another World“. For simplicity, this is Our Family Story.I love hearing, and sharing, and reading and telling the story of our Heavenly Father’s plan. I’m in good company, too. Apostle and scholar, 
New Comments