Playing “Ain’t It Awful” in Church

Psychologist Eric Berne taught that people sometimes get caught up in interactions that follow a pre-defined pattern and progress to a predictable outcome. He called these interactions “Games” and described a number of these games in detail in his 1964 best-seller, Games People Play: The Psychology of Human Relationships.  One game that is common in … Read more

The Father of our modern-day Gadianton robbers

“And seeing the people in a state of such awful wickedness, and those Gadianton robbers filling the judgment-seats—having usurped the power and authority of the land; laying aside the commandments of God, and not in the least aright before him; doing no justice unto the children of men; “Condemning the righteous because of their righteousness; … Read more

The Bubble of Lies

James Comey, the former director of the FBI, is concerned about leaders “who will lie about anything,” followers “who will believe anything,” and media sources “that will say anything.” He is encouraging Americans to “break out of that bubble and seek truth.” In an earlier tweet, he said, “Facts matter” and accused Republicans of attacking … Read more

Gratitude: A duty or an expression of joy?

“Gratitude is central to Mr. Trump’s politics. He demands it of his followers, his cabinet and, indeed, of all citizens. He deploys gratitude against his enemies and critics to embarrass and shame. Being grateful is not an option. It is a requirement. Donald Trump has made “thank you” divisive.” — Diana Butler Bass Like Caesar … Read more

The Rules are What Bring the Blessings

“And when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated.” (Doctrine and Covenants 130:21) In the Pre-Earth Council in Heaven, when Lucifer offered to be the redeemer of mankind, he said, “I will redeem all mankind, that one soul shall not be lost.” (Moses 4:1). … Read more