San Francisco California

San Francisco

We discovered a wonderful way to enjoy the San Francisco area.  Stay across the bay in Emeryville.  Then take a ferry ride from the Oakland dock over to Pier 41 in San Francisco.  Enjoy a relaxing trolley bus tour and have a delicious meal on Fisherman's Warf.

Alcatraz Island

Lombard Street

Browse through a few shops and try your luck at finding a pearl in the pearl shop. Top it off with an ice cream cone on the ferry ride back.  No stress, no traffic, no hassle, very little money.

Oakland - First Crane Port for Cargo Ships

Bill on Ferry

Bay Bridge

Janice harvested pearl

Pattern - Poem

Pattern -

Thank you

     for leaving the garden,

     safety and security

     welcoming children

     heartache and difficulty

 

     for accepting labor

     blood, sweat and pain

     calling on God

     again and again

     for accepting agency

     grieving lost children

     establishing family

     setting righteous pattern

     for building an altar

     symbol to remember

     and introducing

     Christ’s atonement and forever

By Janice Harten

July 28, 2008
Copyright © 2012 Janice Harten.  All rights reserved.

Oakland California Temple - Favorite Bedtime Story

I had a favorite bedtime story.  It was about a small pioneer child who followed the family covered wagon by holding on behind and letting the wagon pull him along.  My sister and I used to beg my father to retell this story every night.  He didn't read it from a book, but lay on the bed between us and told the story from memory.  If he changed the story in any way, we corrected him.  There were especially long moments of my father describing how tired the little boy was getting as he walked...and walked...and walked....  Yes, he was trying to get us to finally close our eyes and sleep.

Like this favorite bedtime story, I recognize the familiar ring the temple ceremony has to my ears.  As I listen to it again and again, I am able to remember and repeat many of the words.  And sometimes, when I am going about my regular daily activities, some of those words come to mind, and I remember the Lord's plan and his love for me.  And so the story becomes more endearing and personal over time.  And, like a small child listening to her loving father tell her a story, I can feel his closeness and the love we have for one another.

Sacramento California Temple - Can I Stay?

Can I Stay?  This is what I felt, while sitting in the Celestial Room of the Sacramento California Temple.  It was so beautiful, neither Bill or I wanted to leave.  It wasn't just the physical beauty of this place that kept us there.  There also existed a wonderful feeling of peace and warmth, that I have come to know as the spirit of the Lord.  The glorious chandelier, the full length windows surrounded in tinted blue, the magnificent arches, all echoed a song of love to and from the Lord.

When God created the earth, he made an especially beautiful garden for Adam and Eve.  There they walked and talked with him, and he taught them.  They were told to tend and take care of the garden, and to have joy.  I believe it is good to enjoy
and create beauty.  In reality we are each given a small garden, or world, to manage: our bodies, our families, our homes and property.  We tend, repair, improve, beautify and enjoy these creations made through God's gift and our own hands.  We praise him through our efforts and are accountable to him for these stewardships.  It is all practice and a prelude for a more permanent and glorious place.

When my husband and I planted two honey locust trees in our front yard, 20 years ago, we prayed for them to grow and be protected.  When they were new, a strong windstorm came up, and Bill and I literally held on to them to preserve them.  Our neighbors laughed at our comical efforts.  I have cleaned and painted every corner of every room in our home.  Bill has tended the yard, tilled and planted tomatoes and cucumbers in our small patch of garden.  We have laughed, loved, cried and pleaded with the Lord, for ourselves and our children, within this small plot of ground.  I pray the Lord will continue to sanctify and hallow this small spot in Eden's former plot.

Reno Nevada Temple - Liahona

The wind swirled around us as we drove toward the Reno Nevada Temple, on a hilltop west of the city.  We arrived just in time for the last session, with the help of our phone GPS instructions.  In all of our searches for temples, or hotels, no matter how confusing the streets have been, the GPS quickly adapted to our correct and incorrect turns, and charted us a course that eventually took us where we wanted to be.  (Except the time it gave us directions to Australia, when we only needed to go a few blocks!)

I cannot help but compare this technology to the "ball of curious workmanship", described by the Prophet Nephi in the Book of Mormon.

1Ne 16:10

 10 And it came to pass that as my father arose in the morning, and went forth to the tent door, to his great astonishment he beheld upon the ground a round ^aball of curious workmanship; and it was of fine brass. And within the ball were two spindles; and the one ^bpointed the way whither we should go into the wilderness.

There is a significant difference between our GPS and the Liahona.  The ancient compass operated, based on the righteousness and faithfulness of those to whom it was entrusted.  So, when they neglected their relationship with the Lord, it stopped working and they would wander and get lost.  But, when they followed the instructions correctly, they were eventually led to the promised land.

Later, in the Book of Mormon, Alma (another prophet), likened the blessings of following the Liahona, to following the word of Christ.

Alma 37:45
45 And now I say, is there not a ^atype in this thing? For just as surely as this director did bring our fathers, by following its course, to the promised land, shall the words of Christ, if we follow their course, carry us beyond this vale of sorrow into a far better land of promise.

I know, if we follow the words of Christ, we will be guided back into his presence.

One of the women (Sisters) greeted us as we entered the front door.  Later I spoke with her, and was surprised to discover she and her husband served a mission in Peru and Bolivia, about 11 years ago.  Her husband is a medical doctor and was in charge of keeping 1200 missionaries healthy, who were serving in those two countries.  They traveled frequently.   It was very challenging and some of the missionaries experienced unusual and rare fevers and diseases, that we don't typically see in the United States.  I felt a kinship with her as I shared some of my experiences while growing up in Bolivia.

This is proof I'm not totally vain!
Believe it or not...this was
the best of three attempted pictures!

She and her husband are an example of so many other missionary couples who, once they retire, choose to serve missions throughout the world, at their own expense.  Some serve in the temples, or they serve humanitarian missions, where supplies are gathered and sent all over the world to those experiencing hardship from natural disasters.  Recent examples are, the earthquake in Japan, and the tornadoes in the southern US.  The supplies and relief, bless all people in the affected area.  Other missionary couples go to places to help strengthen and fellowship members of the church.  Some help train or mentor individuals, help manage farms and distribution centers, or serve on military bases.  The list and the need is almost endless.

I will always be grateful for various missionary couples who have watched over and served beside our sons, while they have been serving missions, and in the military.

A few years ago, our Stake President, challenged each member of the stake to set a future date, when they would be willing to accept a call to serve a mission.  Our date is quickly approaching, but will require a few more miracles between now and then.

Grief - Poem

Grief -

Heart can’t hold, swell of grief

    Welling in my soul

I cannot bear immortal tug

    Toward my heaven home

Remember…,but protect this moment

    Vaulted, private woe

Momentary glimpse, then cushion

    Painful gift bestowed

With one turn, weathered key

    Released earthly foe

An eternal lesson granted

    Acquaintance with Godly sorrow

Janice Harten

April 24, 2012
Copyright © 2012 Janice Harten.  All rights reserved.

Go in' Home, Go in' Home, I Am Go in' Home...

Today, I attended the funeral of my brother-in-law's father.  Mingled with the sorrow and love, was a beautiful song entitled, "Go in' Home", sung by one of this man's nephews.  It's beauty is still playing in my mind.  How peaceful and comforting to know we are only going back home when we die.  Back into the arms of those who loved us always.

The Strongest Swimmers - Poem

The Strongest Swimmers

Sometimes, the strongest swimmers

   Fight off their rescuers

Managing to stay afloat

   A few more moments –

   Before drowning

Won’t they accept the hand

   Extended to rescue –

Or proudly go down

   With the Savior’s feet

   In full view

By Janice Harten

8/2/2008

Copyright © 2012 Janice Harten.  All rights reserved.

Wandering Lamb - Poem

Wandering Lamb

Wandering Lamb

Won’t you be found

He’s waiting beside you

Turn around

By Janice Harten
Jul 31, 2008

Copyright © 2012 Janice Harten.  All rights reserved.

Rexburg Idaho Temple - House of Higher Learning

A house of higher learning sits on a hill overlooking Brigham Young University Idaho.  The Rexburg Temple can almost be described as an addition to the campus, where students and others turn for spiritual learning.

BYU-I's mission statement reads, BYU-Idaho seeks to develop students who are spiritually focused and ready for leadership in their families, the workplace, and the community.  Several of our children chose to attend this university, and our youngest son is currently studying there.

Recently, I pondered the account of when Jesus was 12 years old and he was discovered by his parents in the temple. (Luke 2)  And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.  And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.

Throughout his mortal ministry, Jesus continued to teach in the temple. (John 18:20) Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing.  Therefore, it seems obvious that today we may seek to enter the chapels and the temple to be taught by him.

Someone I spoke with recently, questioned our need for inspiration from the Lord, and they wondered if we are as capable of accomplishing the same things by our own power.  Someone else described this as having faith only in oneself, rather than having faith in Jesus Christ.  I was pondering these comments as we prepared to enter the temple session.  I picked up the scriptures, and as I sometimes do, I decided to open them to a random page, and prayed I would find an answer to whether we need the Lord's help.

I opened to Mormon 4.  The chapter heading indicated this chapter was about the war and destruction of an ancient people who once lived on the Americas, called the Nephites.  Immediately, I said in my mind, "No!".  I really didn't want to read such a sad account before going into the session.  So, my next inclination was to open the book somewhere else.  However, I decided to exercise my faith more, and I silently prayed again that I would find something within the chapter I'd turned to that would answer my prayers.

The account on the next few pages, (Mormon 4, 5) was a perfect description of the need to rely on our Savior, Jesus Christ, and what will become of those who turn away from him and rely only on their own power.

4:18  And from this time forth did the Nephites gain no power over the Lamanites, but began to be swept off by them even as a dew before the sun.
5:2  ...they repented not of their iniquities, but did struggle for their lives without calling upon that Being who created them.
5:17  They were once a delightsome people, and they had Christ for their shepherd; yea, they were led even by God the Father.
5:18  But now, behold, they are led about by Satan, even as chaff is driven before the wind, or as a vessel is tossed about upon the waves, without sail or anchor, or without anything wherewith to steer her; and even as she is, so are they.

This appears to be a very harsh and unloving fate for those who have strayed from the arms of the Savior.  But, these were people who had once known and followed him, and then turned away.  However, the chapter continues by describing the restoration of hope for those caught in this downward spiral.  These next verses are talking about the coming forth of the Book of Mormon.  The whole purpose of the Book of Mormon is to restore faith to those who want to come, know and be brought back into the Savior's presence.

5:12  Now these things are written unto the remnant of the house of Jacob; and they are written after this manner, because it is known of God that wickedness will not bring them forth unto them; and they are to be hid up unto the Lord that they may come forth in his own due time.
5:14  And behold, they shall go unto the unbelieving of the Jews; and for this intent shall they go - that they may be persuaded that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God; that the Father may bring about, through his most Beloved, his great and eternal purpose, in restoring the Jews, or all the house of Israel, to the land of their inheritance, which the Lord their God hath given them, unto the fulfilling of his covenant;

5:21  And also the Lord will remember the prayers of the righteous, which have been put up unto him for them.
5:22  And then, O ye Gentiles, how can ye stand before the power of God, except ye shall repent and turn from your evil ways?
5:23  Know ye not that ye are in the hands of God?  Know ye not that he hath all power, and at his great command the earth shall be rolled together as a scroll?
5:24  Therefore, repent ye, and humble yourselves before him...

It seems clear to me, and I testify, that we need the help of the Lord, to overcome sin and receive the blessings of happiness.  Without him there is eventual sadness, destruction and pain.  I choose the former.

At the beginning of this blog, I shared an experience and poem about the reflections of light in the chandelier in the Bountiful Temple.  They were symbolic of future posterity.  In the Rexburg Temple, I again noticed these tiny sparkling colors, and a new realization came to me.  If each of these sparkles represents an individual person, none of them are forgotten or out of sight of our Father in Heaven.  They remain completely within his vision and power of influence.  And even though some remain hidden from me, although I appear to be looking right at them, each is never out of his sight, reach or understanding.  He looks upon us all with the eyes of a loving Father, ready and eager to help as soon as we are willing to invite and receive him.

I guess this is my Sunday sermon to myself.  I didn't even describe the majesty of the temple interior and surroundings.  This is, without a doubt, one of my favorite temples.

Idaho Falls Idaho Temple - Sacred Trust and Impressions

For a couple of months, each summer, Bill's mother would travel from their home in Idaho Falls, to a town in Pennsylvania, where her ancestors were from.  She studied maps and gathered books containing records, so she could identify her relatives and submit their names for temple work.  Her desire was to unite and link her family together.  My husband has inherited her research books and the family history records she gathered.  It is a sacred trust, and we are quite overwhelmed with the task of how to preserve and add to the work she began.

I can only imagine the greeting she received, when she passed away, from the relatives she found and grew to love over her many years of research and sacrifice.

While looking for someone to take our picture before entering the front door of the temple, Bill approached a young father who was there with his wife and two children.  It took me a moment to see that there were two missionaries with them.  He graciously took our picture, and then we observed his smiling family gather in front of a small water feature, while one of the missionaries took their picture.  I wish now, we had taken more time to visit with them.  I could see evidence of multiple tattoos along his arms and around his neck.  I'm sure he has an interesting story to tell.

While sitting in the Celestial Room, at the end of the session, Bill recognized and greeted a childhood friend.  Later he mentioned how much it meant to him to see a friend who has come to this time of their lives, who continues to serve and have a strong testimony of the gospel.  So many of his friends have had very difficult and troubling lives, and he was glad to have discovered someone who was also happy, like hmself.

Soon Bill's brother-in-law entered to greet us.  He is serving as the men's coordinator in the temple.  I took a moment to ask if he would explain one of the murals on the wall.  He simply referred to the opportunity each person has of receiving personal revelation each time they come.  And we might receive different impressions about each of these things during subsequent visits. I could tell he had been asked to not offer an interpretation, but to allow each temple visitor, myself included, to ponder and receive personal thoughts and impressions.

Waterfalls cascade along the river running in front of the Idaho Falls Temple.  It reminded me of a recent talk by Elder Packer and a scripture he quoted from D&C 121.

Regardless of opposition or “wars, rumors of wars, and earthquakes in divers places,”²⁰ no power or influence can stop this work. Every one of us can be guided by the spirit of revelation and the gift of the Holy Ghost. “As well might man stretch forth his puny arm to stop the Missouri river in its decreed course, or to turn it up stream, as to hinder the Almighty from pouring down knowledge from heaven upon the heads of the Latter-day Saints.”²¹

Twin Falls Idaho Temple - No Respecter of Persons

Even the smallest spot with flowers, lifts my spirits.  Spring! Yeah!  A symbol of hope for the future.

While attending the temple in Twin Falls, I noticed the lovely white dresses the women wore.  They were modest and without fancy adornment, yet were lovely and attractive.  The men were similarly dressed in clean white shirts and slacks, demonstrating quiet reverence, with the intent of focusing on the message and service they were performing.  I could not tell who was rich, poor, well known or little known.  No one attempted to draw attention to themselves.  No one was acknowledged or pointed out.  Everyone performed the same service and did the same work.  There was no special seating or chairs set aside to designate someone of importance.  We entered the room one by one and listened to the same instruction.

The Lord, at the last supper, performed the sacred ordinance of washing the apostles feet.  Quietly, he demonstrated how they were to serve one another, without seeking attention and reward.

John 13: 14-17
If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.  For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.  Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.  If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

Shoshone Falls - Surprise!

We were surprised and delighted to discover the dramatic Shoshone Falls, just a few minutes outside Twin Falls.  They are considered the Niagara Falls of the west, with a drop several feet further than the falls in New York.

Woodchuck or Marmot?

Bill was especially taken by the stream of water traveling from the top of the falls to the bottom along the large rock to the right of the picture.

White Linen - Poem

White Linen

Twisted olive tree steadies a writhing soul

As red blood-drops, moisten the ground below

Sleeping friends unknowingly abandon one

Who is suffering beyond what mortal has done

Scourging and thorns punish innocent flesh

Cobbled stones carry their creator’s final step

Crucifix sign declares, ‘King of the Jews’

Permanent mark of nails, pierce hands and feet through

“Father, forgive them,” is perfect love’s reply

As the tormentors, his brothers, mock nearby

Finally, he calls, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani”

My God, my God, Why hast thou forsaken me?

Alone, he submits, choosing mortal death

To his Father in Heaven he commends his spirit

Earth shudders and mourns for its Lord of creation

As humanity, as foretold, their Savior they’ve forsaken

Body lays, carefully wrapped, in a borrowed tomb

Stone rolled, and guards the sacred Garden room

“In three days this temple, again, I will raise”

All who heard had not understood the prophetic phrase

White linen found lying in the sepulcher

The Savior’s bruised tabernacle no longer there

Women humbly ask where his body has been taken

Angels solemnly declare, “He is not here, for He is risen”

Having overcome the sins of the world

Making possible humankind’s wounds to be healed

Suffering all things from the beginning

That for the repentant, eternal life may be given

Having drunk out of the most bitter cup

That all mankind might be lifted up

Perfectly submitting to his Father’s will

Broken bread and clear water remind us still

By Janice Harten

Jan. 22, 2001

Copyright © 2012 Janice Harten.  All rights reserved.

Basin - Poem

Basin

Basin of stone

On upper room floor

Purpose unknown

Water poured

Hand dips, rag drips

Against the edge droplets lick

Dust and sleep

Wiped from tired feet

Of twelve repeat

Hidden symbol

Quiet lesson

Of servant vessel

Janice Harten

May 20, 2011

Copyright © 2012 Janice Harten.  All rights reserved.

Aloha - Sunset

What is blue...?

What is blue, twirls and can turn on a dime?  The answer is the helicopter we flew in over the island of Kaua'i.  We danced in and around canyons displaying waterfalls falling hundreds of feet.  We followed colorful coastline with caves, where many memorable movies have been made, such as "South Pacific".  And we dipped into the Kaua'i grand canyon.  Fortunately we elected to ride in a helicopter with doors, but for those who are more adventurous and not afraid of getting a little wet, there are rides without doors.  It was a glorious ride into some of God's most beautiful creations.

On Oahu, we experienced the PCC (Polynesian Cultural Center), where we ate a delicious Luau and saw an awesome program called "Ha", meaning "The Breath of Life".  It is the story of birth and death and life's purpose, depicted through the native dances of the polynesian islands and cultures.

A Katamaran ride, snorkeling with fish and green sea turtles, and an evening sunset cruise were other highlights.

And then, of course, there were the beaches.  Everywhere we turned was a picture postcard.  Between my sister and I we took over a thousand pictures.  Now, as I pour over them, I'm enjoying reliving the experiences we had together.  These are memories for a lifetime.