Faith...

I've been studying "faith" this morning in the Bible. I find the following passage interesting from Matthew 17. Traditionally, I think that it is read one way, but today it occurred to me perhaps it refers to something else:

14 ¶ And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying,

15 Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he ^afalleth into the fire, and oft into the water.

16 And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him.

17 Then Jesus answered and said, O ^afaithless and ^bperverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me.

18 And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour.

19 Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out?

20 And Jesus said unto them, Because of your ^aunbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have ^bfaith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this ^cmountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be ^dimpossible unto you.

21 Howbeit this ^akind goeth not out but by prayer and ^bfasting.

I have often heard reference that verse 21 signifies that certain miracles won't happen unless you pray and fast (which are true and essential acts).

But today it struck me that perhaps Jesus could have been referencing this statement, "O faithless and perverse generation..." when He said: "Howbeit this kind goeth not out by by prayer and fasting." Perhaps the Savior was meaning that an unbelieving heart is the thing that requires fasting (and prayer) to change sufficiently, which then always leads to miracles.

He himself said that the most minute particles of faith, such as the size of a mustard seed, could cause a mountain to move. So perhaps it is not that deep fasting and prayer force fruition of miracles. That would seem almost contradictory (Christ Himself said that miracles only require a particle of faith to occur). Perhaps the Savior simply was saying that it is perverse unbelief that requires prayer and fasting to be removed.

Just a thought that struck me today.

Lisa Mangum's debut novel is here!

I have loved getting to know Lisa Mangum better, both through our recent interview series over at BellaOnline.com (here and here) and at a recent writers' conference. I have been extremely impressed with Lisa as a person. Could you meet a kinder, sweeter individual? I think not. No wonder so many that know her love her.

But being sweet and kind will not necessarily feed or create a can't-put-it-down novel. Lisa's new book, The Hourglass Door, is a work of delightful creativity that stays with you long after finishing it. I had a hard time putting it down. And for all Twilight fans out there, I have news . . . I think Lisa's novel offers more.

In the past two portions of my interview with debut novelist, Lisa Mangum, we learned how The Hourglass Door evolved and the process she used to write it. In this final installment, she shares her future plans and insider information about the publishing industry.

C.S.: Lisa, what other books do you have planned?

LISA: The story of Abby and Dante is a trilogy, so right now I’m working on book two. But I’m also working on an adult fantasy novel that’s about halfway finished. And I have a whole file of ideas on the computer and in my writing notebook just waiting for me to tend to it.

C.S.: How long did it take to hear back the good news for The Hourglass Door? For those perhaps unfamiliar with the process, what was this like?

LISA: Having been in the publishing business for more than a decade, I can promise you that no two authors take the same road to publication. And whether it takes two weeks, two months, or two years, each acceptance is as individual as the author itself. My path to publication was shortened by the fact that I work directly with the people making the decisions. But even then, I knew it wasn’t a given that Shadow Mountain would pick up my book. Publishing is a business, after all, and I knew Chris Schoebinger (our Product Director over YA fiction) wouldn’t say yes to a book unless he knew it was a good business decision—no matter who wrote it. So like every other author, I waited anxiously for his decision and fretted and worried and second-guessed my work. And, like so many other authors, I felt that wonderful wave of relief and joy and excitement when I sat in his office and he said, yes, he wanted to publish my book for real.

C.S.: What is critical that other writers should know about the submission process to a publisher?

LISA: How many pages do you have? J Maybe I can boil it down to these three things: One, submit your work to the right publisher. It doesn’t matter how brilliant your novel is if the publisher you send it to doesn’t publish fiction. Two, have patience. I know everybody hates to wait, especially to hear back about a manuscript, but more often than not the old adage is true: no news is good news. It’s easy to say no to bad manuscripts and send them back; if a publisher is hanging on to a manuscript, generally it’s because there is something there that they don’t want to lose. Three, rejections aren’t personal. There are a gazillion different reasons why a publisher decides to pass on a project—and none of them are because they don’t like you as a person. So keep writing and keep submitting your work.

C.S.: What is your favorite part about being a writer?

LISA: I love that moment when a phrase or a scene or an emotion grabs hold of you and won’t let go. And when you get it down on paper, it’s like you’ve turned a key and the floodgates open. It’s those moments when I feel like the story is telling itself and I just hope I can do it justice by writing it down.

C.S.: What is the most frustrating part?

LISA: For me, it’s been learning how to turn off the editor part of my brain and just write. I can’t count the number of times I’ve had to tell myself, “Don’t worry about it. Fix it later,” because part of me wants to stop and look up a grammar rule or check the spelling of a word.

C.S.: Did you ever experience writer's block in the process of writing The Hourglass Door? What would you recommend to other writers if they experience obstacles to their story and/or world-building?

LISA: There were a few times when I sat down to write and nothing happened. On days when that happened, I found that if I told myself, “Just write something; you can delete it later,” I felt free to play around, make my characters do crazy things, and wander into uncharted plot territory. And while I often did delete a whole hour’s worth of work, there were times I would find something worth keeping or worth rewriting another day when I could look at the scene with fresh eyes. Another thing that helped when I ran into a block was to skip it and write something else. I’d just leave myself a note—“finish chapter,” “add transition,” “add something cool here”—and then jump ahead to another part of the story. For example, if a scene with Abby and Valerie was stagnating, then I’d say to myself, “Well, I know I need a scene with Abby and Zo where they talk about this-and-such” and I’d insert a page break and move on.

C.S.: Who have you been most inspired by in your life? What encourages you on difficult days? Or do you never have discouraging moments? :0)

LISA: There are two people who inspire me the most: my mom and my husband, Tracy. Mom is a writer too (she’s LaRene Gaunt, Assistant Managing Editor at the Ensign magazine) and we are like two peas in a pod when it comes to loving the minutiae of a story. She really was the one who set me on the path of being a lifelong reader and lover of words. And she was the one who helped me achieve my dream of being an editor. Tracy is my number-one fan. He always seems to know just when to jump in with the perfect bit of encouragement, or when to stand back and let me find my own way. On difficult days, I know I can always turn to my family and they’ll pull me through.

C.S.: Who are your favorite authors?

LISA: A loaded question, to be sure. Currently, or of all-time? Fiction or non-fiction? Which genre—fantasy, romance, mystery, historical fiction? Since I’ve been reading since I was three years old, and since I’ll read just about anything I can get my hands on, I have a long list of favorite authors and books. I’m dying waiting for the new Patrick Rothfuss novel. And the new George R.R. Martin novel. I’ll read anything Tad Williams writes. Watchmen blew my mind. So did Neal Stephenson’s epic Anatham, which made me wish I’d paid more attention to both science and philosophy in college. I loved Neil Gaimen’s Newberry-winner The Graveyard Book. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is high on my list of all-time favorite books. Stephen King’s Dark Tower series is brilliant, as is Lisey’s Story and The Stand. I had the privilege of attending a reading of Margaret Atwood’s Oryx and Crake—I got chills listening to her talk about that book. But ask me again tomorrow and I’ll probably have an entirely different list . . . J

C.S.: What have you seen as some of the most damaging choices an author might make to his or her career ?

LISA: The author-editor relationship is so important and, speaking as an editor, it’s hard when an author fights you on every edit, every change, every suggestion. Having said that, though, there are times when an author needs to fight for their story and their voice. I think the ideal lies somewhere in between—where an author and an editor can build a professional and respectful relationship and understand that everything they do is in the service of the story and for the good of the reader. Editors are here to help—if you’ll let us.

The author-publisher relationship is equally important. Publishing is a business, so you have to have some business-savvy to survive, but still balance it with that creative spark and passion that made you want to write in the first place.

C.S.: Do you have other works in progress? If so, will your path to complete them follow a similar pattern as The Hourglass Door, or will you adjust how you write your next book?

LISA: Writing book two — working title, The Golden Spiral — is following the same path as The Hourglass Door, and I’m happy to report that things are going great. I’m excited by the story and I think some great things are emerging.

C.S.: What words of encouragement would you give other writers?

LISA: Tracy and I love to go to Disneyland on vacation, and one year when we were there, we passed a wall that had a collection of inspirational quotes from Walt Disney and some Imagineers. I fell in love with one them: “Don’t hurry. Don’t worry. Don’t quit.” Don’t hurry your talent—cherish it, develop it. Don’t worry if you make a mistake—rewriting is not a sign of failure, it’s the mark of a great writer. Don’t quit—persistence, persistence, persistence.

C.S.: How do you maintain balance? You lead a busy life!

LISA: It’s about prioritizing and multi-tasking. It’s about making choices. I’m also a big fan of checklists—I love that rush of endorphins when I can check something off my list. Long ago I decided to not bring work home with me. I do what I can to complete my tasks at work, and then I go home. If that means building in more editing time for a project, or asking for help, or figuring out ways to work faster or smarter or harder, so be it. But that way, when I’m home, I’m home: I can spend time with my family, I can work on my stories, I can play on the weekends and not feel guilty about missing a deadline at work.

C.S.: What is your philosophy about life, writing, living?

LISA: My friend at work has a quote in her office that says, “Don’t place a period where God has placed a comma.” I think that holds true in life and in writing. You can’t ever stop reaching for your dream, developing your talent, becoming a better person, because you never know when what you think is a end is really the beginning of something new. I hope that I can always keep going and keep growing.

C.S.: And for those who love trivia, what is your favorite color, food, and music group?

LISA: Green. Chocolate. Rush.

C.S.: Any final words on how our readers can find you and your book signings when The Hourglass Door releases? Do you have a newsletter they can join to hear the latest on The Hourglass Door and future works?

LISA: I’m building my web site LisaMangum.com where I plan on hosting my blog and all the latest, greatest information about me and all my books—current and future. Shadow Mountain will also have www.LeosDungeon.com to market and advertise all three books about Abby and Dante. I’m excited to do some book signings and getting out there to tell people about my book.
~~~~
I'd like to thank Lisa for the time she's taken with us today, especially in light of her busy schedule. And the best part? The wait is over. You now can find her book at Deseret Book stores and online here. The Hourglass Door is an excellent read when you need a little pick me up.

I love individuals who have the courage to take a situation that normally is devastating and turn it to the welfare of others. The author for today's interview has done just that. Meet Diony George. Her novel, Torn Apart, released in 2008, shows the devastation that pornography causes in families. Diony was kind enough to share the writing process that brought about this important book.

C.S.: Diony, thank you for being with us. When did you first know you wanted to be an author?

DIONY: I grew up loving to write. Something about creating a visual picture through description excited me. Words can be so powerful in eliciting a variety of feelings and emotions. However, I never thought much about writing a book until I felt strongly, I was supposed to write Torn Apart to help others struggling in similar situations. As the chapters began to fill pages I realized writing expressed a part of me I couldn’t express in any other way.

C.S.: What was the pathway like for you to get your most recent book published?

DIONY: Long and often, difficult! I started writing my book about six years ago; it took me five months to finish. Getting it published was a completely different challenge, including weeks and months when I didn’t want to think about it at all because of how frustrated I had become. The rejection letters from publishers got hard to take. But, once it was time, doors opened, the right people I needed crossed my path, and I was offered a publishing contract. That was a very happy day!

C.S.: Yes, indeed! What got you through those times of discouragement?

DIONY: Patience, prayer, and hope.

C.S.: So, in light of that, what words of advice do you have for other writers who desire to have their manuscripts become books in print?

DIONY: If you believe you have a message to share with the world, never, ever give up.

C.S.: What is your process of writing? Do you outline or just free-flow?

DIONY: I’ve done a little of both, but I’ve learned an outline, even if it is not detailed, keeps you focused and can prevent wasted time.

C.S.: Do you ever experience a snag in a story, a form of writer's block? If so, how do you deal with it?

DIONY: I find something else to focus on, and when I’m not trying so hard to figure out what should come next little thoughts of inspiration arrive.

C.S.: Do you need absolute quiet to write? Do you listen to music when you are writing?

DIONY: I write much better when it’s quiet, which in my house doesn’t happen until everyone is asleep.

C.S.: Who has made the greatest difference for you as a writer?

DIONY: Richard Paul Evans. He sat at my table at a business luncheon. When I realized who he was, a very successful speaker and writer with many published books including NY Times bestsellers, I was in awe. But he was friendly, warm, and very down to earth.

He made me realize writers were “normal people” and that gave me hope to become a published writer myself.

C.S.: That must have been a wonderful experience. Are you a writer that likes critique groups? What works for you?

DIONY: I don’t use a formal critique group that I meet with regularly, but I do currently get input and varied perspectives from friends and family members.

C.S.: Where can our readers go to find your books and order them?

DIONY: You can get Torn Apart in local bookstore chains, order it from my publisher, Cedar Fort, online at Amazon and other well-known booksellers, or my personal website, http://tornapartbyporn.com

~~~

I thank Diony for visiting with me today and applaud her for her willingness to make a difference. Torn Apart is a book that would be well worth your while to read. Make sure to visit http://tornapartbyporn.com for more information.

Interview with Joyce DiPastena

I love learning about all things medieval, especially because I have a novel in the works set in early medieval times of 510 A.D. When I heard of Joyce DiPastena and her deep knowledge of medieval history, I was intrigued. She is not only a well-read (and humble) expert of that time period, but also a novelist. I think you'll enjoy her thoughts!

C.S.: Joyce, thanks for visiting. Let's start first about your work as a writer. When did you first know you wanted to be an author, especially of historical fiction?

JOYCE: I first started "dabbling" in writing historical fiction in high school, but I never thought of myself as wanting to be "an author". I worshipped "authors", and viewed them as creatures so far above me, that I would have viewed it as the highest form of impertinence to think I could aspire to join so elect a "club" of beings.

So, as I said, I viewed myself merely as a "dabbler" in the written word. After a number of false starts on stories I began but never finished, I finally began a story in college that captivated my interest enough to carry me through all the way to the words, "The End". It came as rather a shock to me to realize that, at the end of the process, I had a serious novel-length story on my hands. Gradually I hesitantly started the process of shopping it around to editors and agents. I received a number of encouraging responses to that book, but it never quite made it over the line into consideration for publication.

I was disappointed then, but today I admit, I'm glad I didn't find a publisher. My writing skills have improved light years since those long ago college days. Had my story been published then, I might have been content to rest on my laurels and never have developed into the much improved writer that I am today. And to be honest, I still have trouble with the title "author" being applied to me. I really am much more comfortable simply viewing myself as a "writer".

C.S.: What is your process of brainstorming a story? Do you just sit down and write, waiting to see what happens next? Or do you outline first?

JOYCE: I've tried outlining my stories ahead of time, but I never stick to my outline, so I guess I'm more of a "sit down and write and wait to see what happens" kind of writer. I do start out with some ideas, of course, and a few main characters in mind, and I have a general idea of where I want the story to end up, but I don't know exactly how I'm going to get there when I start writing. Usually, by the end of a writing session, some ideas for "where to go next" will have occurred to me. I type those notes in CAPS at the end of wherever my stopping point was that day, and that helps me to know where to pick up when I start writing again.

C.S.: Do you ever experience a snag in a story, a form of writer's block? If so, how do you deal with it?

JOYCE: For "small" snags in a story, where I just can't quite figure out how to get my characters from Point A to Point B, I've learned that instead of banging my head against a wall that I just can't move, the answer is not to move the wall, but to go around the wall. In other words, if X won't work, then try Y instead. I literally say to myself, "This isn't working. It's time to try something else to get where I want to go." It took me a long time and a lot of useless head banging before I learned this lesson, but "going around it", "doing something else" usually solves the problem.

C.S.: Do you need absolute quiet to write? Do you listen to music when you are writing?

JOYCE: I need absolute quiet to write. Apparently there's just enough of the "musician" in me that if I have music playing in the background, I find my attention split between trying to write and trying to listen to the musical theme or words being played or sung in the background. So no, I can't listen to music (or anything else but my brain) when I write.

C.S.: What kinds of inspiration do you use during your story creation periods?

JOYCE: Sometimes I find inspiration in other novels that I read. I may find a character in a book that stirs my interest, either positively or negatively, and I find myself thinking, "If I were to write a story about this character, what would I do differently?"

For example, shortly before I began that first book I wrote back in college, I read a Regency romance book where the hero was a total jerk and a bully, then completely inexplicably in the last few pages, suddenly changed his ways due to "the love of a good woman". I was so completely infuriated that I took that "hero" and turned him into the "villain" of my first book. It wasn't plagiarism. I changed his name, I planted him in the Middle Ages instead of the Regency period, I turned him into a powerfully important political figure for the time who just happened to want to marry my heroine for her inheritance. Although I patterned many of his character traits on that bullying Regency "hero", he definitely evolved into his own "person" as my story progressed.

Now that I have a few additional stories under my belt, I'll often find myself intrigued by a secondary character I've created and want to know what happens to him after I type "The End" on my current hero and heroine. So I'll start another story to find out the answer.

I guess you could say that most of my "inspiration" is character-oriented, rather than event-oriented.

C.S.: What, then, was the pathway like for you to get your most recent book published?

JOYCE: The pathway? How far back to you want me to go? My recently published book, Loyalty's Web, is actually the third book in my medieval "series" that began back in college (though I wrote Loyalty's Web itself long after college). It's been through many, many different drafts since I wrote the original version.

I had a few close calls with it in the national market. An editor at Bantam said she loved it and wanted to publish it, but before we could move to the contract stage, Bantam merged with another publishing house. As a result, all the Bantam editors, including mine, were let go, and the new editors felt differently about my novel and dropped it like a stone. (Okay, let's just say it felt that way to me.)

I had an agent actually telephone me to tell me how much she loved the story, but said she didn't know how to market it, because "It had too much plot to be a romance, and not enough pageantry to be an historical". To this day, I don't know what she meant by the "pageantry" line. She did add, however, that if I would add just one sex scene, even a short one, she thought she might be able to sell it. That was a non-starter for me, so I took my book, sans sex scene, back to square one.

Later, after several proddings by friends, I tried submitting it to an LDS publisher, but of course, was turned down due to lack of LDS content. LDS "standards" were insufficient, but of course it was impossible to impose an LDS theme on a book set in the Middle Ages, centuries before the Restoration of the Gospel, in any sort of a believable manner and still retain the historical integrity of the book I had written. So again, that project came to naught. Thus my book continued to lay neglected in my drawer (or, to be more accurate, on a computer disk) for several more years.

Then in 2007, I decided to test the waters with my book on my own by self-publishing it through a print-on-demand program. Shortly thereafter, I learned about the Whitney Awards, and on a lark, rounded up enough friends who had read my book to nominate it for a Whitney. I was floored in early 2008 to learn that Loyalty's Web had actually finaled in the Women's/Romance category. Loyalty's Web didn't win the award, but it attracted the attention of an editor at Leatherwood Press, a small publishing company in Sandy, Utah, who was open to looking at fiction that adhered to LDS standards, without actually containing any LDS content. The editor contacted me and asked me to send her a copy of Loyalty's Web. I did so, the company picked it up and republished it in October 2008.

And that was the very long and convoluted pathway to publishing my first novel!

C.S.: An excellent path indeed. Readers may nominate many books, but it is a committee of professionals that make the final Whitney selections. So you can know you've done well! Now, on to one of my favorite subjects. You have been called an expert in medieval history. Tell us about this.

JOYCE: I wish you could hear my hysterical laughter every time someone says this about me! I am NOT an "expert" in medieval history. I simply have a lot of books on the Middle Ages and I know how to look things up.

Here's a secret: A good index is a researcher's best friend. If a book has a good index, you can zero in on all kinds of specialized information for your particular novel, without having to read an entire research book from cover to cover. Not that I'm discouraging the reading of research books. There are often fascinating bits of information tucked away in the pages that escaped the index, so don't short change yourself there.

But here's another hint: Don't be afraid to make notes in the margins of your research books when you read them, so you can look back quickly to "rediscover" desired information, rather than having to re-read books over and over trying to track down information you've forgotten. Because I promise you, unless you've got a better memory than mine, it is impossible to remember every bit of research you've ever read and have it at your fingertips for every book you will ever write.

In my opinion, knowing how to look things up and incorporate what you learn naturally into your novels is more important than having a photographic memory of everything you've ever read.

C.S.: Have you ever been discouraged as a writer? If so, how did you deal with it?

JOYCE: Yes, I've frequently been discouraged with my writing, and I often haven't dealt with it very well. I've stuck many a writing project away, swearing, "That's it! I'm never going to write again!" But somehow, I always come back to it eventually. I honestly can only assume that, for whatever His own reasons, the Lord planted in me a desire to write, because I certainly never grew up thinking I wanted to be an author. It's just something I kind of evolved into, without a lot of conscious thought as to where I was headed. And though I may bury my writing away for awhile, especially during periods of great stress, eventually the Lord seems to lead me back to it.

In many respects, I still feel like I'm evolving, not only with my talent, but with my faith in walking a path I can rarely see clearly, but which the Lord seems to continue to lead me along...often in spite of myself!

C.S.: What words of advice do you have for other writers who desire to have their manuscripts become books in print?

JOYCE: I may not be the best person to ask that question, because in all honesty, writing a story I love has always been more important to me than publishing. Don't get me wrong, I always wanted to publish, too. I think every writer feels that undeniable "tug" that makes them want to share their words with others. But if the choice is between writing and publishing something I'm not enthused about just to see my name in print, or not writing the story I love because it might never be published, I'm afraid I'm just enough of a dreamer to stick with the story I love.

However, if there are any writers out there inclined to follow my example, I'd urge them to nevertheless write the very best story they can, with the very best writing techniques they can learn, and polish it up even if they think no one will ever see it but themselves. Because you just never know, you might eventually luck into a publisher that shares your vision for your book, like I did with Leatherwood Press. This would never have happened if I'd allowed myself sloppy writing, no matter how much I loved my story.

C.S.: Fascinating. Who has made the greatest difference for you as a writer?

JOYCE: It's hard to pin down just one person. My mother always supported and encouraged me when my odd quirk-of-a-desire-to-write seemed to come out of nowhere. My college history professor, Dr. Thomas Parker, fed my love for the Middle Ages, which subsequently became so central to my writing. Regency author Georgette Heyer influenced me heavily in my early writings, as did an author named D.V.S. Jackson, who wrote a novel called Walk with Peril about Henry V and the Battle of Agincourt.

The editor at Bantam I mentioned earlier gave me a huge boost of confidence when she wanted to publish Loyalty's Web. Her words: "You know I think you're publishable" still ring in my ears as the first such words ever spoken to me by a "professional". She gave me hope that I wasn't just wasting my time, that maybe I really did have talent, and helped build up my faith to keep trying.

C.S.: Do you use a critique group during the writing process? Why or why not?

JOYCE: I don't have anyone critique my manuscript until I consider myself very close to the final draft. The main reason for this is that, while I'd love to have other writers to brainstorm my novels with, I don't live near any writing groups, and it's difficult to brainstorm over the internet with people who are unfamiliar with what I'm currently writing. And I don't want to wear people out with my story before I feel I have a fairly polished product, because I know how limited time is for everyone these days, and I don't want to keep imposing on people over and over again with the same project.

So while I wish I had someone to share my writing process with "along the way", that just hasn't been a practical option for me. Thankfully, I belong to a wonderful writing group called ANWA (American Night Writers Association), an amazing group of LDS women writers who are always willing to help me out with critiques as I near the end of my writing projects.

C.S.: Any final words you would like to share?

JOYCE: Never give up. Don't set yourselves deadlines for publication. That's like saying you can control the publishing world and make them adapt to your timetable, and that's something you simply don't have power over. Some writers are lucky. They write and publish early in their careers. It took me over 20 years to publish my first novel. If I'd set myself the kind of deadlines I sometimes hear other writers setting for themselves, I'd have given up long ago.

We all want to be published, but ask yourself: Am I writing to be published, or am I writing because I love to write? If you write for the love of writing, I believe the rest will take care of itself. "In the Lord's due time, when He knows it's best for us", he'll turn that corner for us.

C.S.: Wise words indeed, Joyce. Where can our readers go to find your books and order them?

JOYCE: Loyalty's Web is currently available in Deseret Bookstores, as well as in many independent LDS bookstores. It can also be ordered at DeseretBook.com and Amazon.com.

Ewwwwwwww....

OK, have you had this happen? You're looking for a recipe site and what you click on...well, ewww. Let's not describe the site, but needless to say, it was repulsive. In a word: it was porn.

I just found an excellent article on a great search engine called "K9". My family uses it and knows how well it works. Best of all, it's free. But you don't have to take my word for it! Here's another blogger, Rachelle Christensen, who also loves that program.

Why wait till your kids accidentally stumble across a pornography site? Or you? All it can take is one exposure to start something that is difficult to stop. Here is K9's official site. Get it today. Install it today. Make a difference.

And here are two more resources to help you understand the situation:
LDS Resources to Stop Pornography on the Web
Healing from Pornography Addition

LDSBookCorner.com -- A Great New Website

Are you an LDS author? Do you love LDS fiction (or non-fiction)? Want to sample a book before buying it? Enjoy this interview I had recently with Deanne Blackhurst and learn about her exciting new website concept. Just wait till you read what she's been up to!

~~~~~

C.S.: Deanne, you have an exciting new proposition to share with us, a website all about LDS books. What was your purpose in starting this site?

DEANNE: The site is LDSBookcorner.com and it is devoted to supporting and promoting LDS authors.

It’s funny but ever since I was a little girl I’ve dreamed of owning a bookstore. Of course in my imagination it was a quaint little shop filled with new and used books, where people could browse at their leisure while I sat in a rocking chair by a fire, a cat at my feet reading a good book. Granted a cyber bookstore is a little different but I do have a wood burning stove near my computer and my black lab is curled up under the computer desk at my feet. So perhaps I’m living the dream after all.

C.S.: When did the idea first come to you?

DEANNE: I’ve always been a big reader, and always interested in LDS authors. I hate to date myself but I remember reading Charly by Jack Weyland when it first came out. Since then a lot of bright and talented new authors have been emerging. I think some of the best writing ever produced by Latter-Day Saint authors is out on the market today.

Originally I just wanted to create a place where all these books could be gathered and appreciated. But my husband pointed out to me that I had to support my dream somehow. So I became an Amazon book affiliate, which allows me to sell books without carrying the inventory. What is really cool is that I can offer everything from the most recent releases to those that have been out of print for years.

C.S.: What do you feel are the best things about LDS books?

DEANNE: First off, I want to make it clear that I support books by LDS authors, not all of which are LDS books per say. But getting back to your question…

Like many avid readers, trying to find something in the national book market today is really a crap shoot. Take Danielle Steele. First rate stories, a skilled writer but in almost every book there is at least one scene that just makes me cringe. But you wouldn’t know that from looking at the cover. No half naked men molesting half naked women. And she is quite successful.

Another example. I saw The Devil Wears Prada at the movie theater and thought I might enjoy the novel, but I couldn’t get through the first chapter because of the foul language. And don’t get me started on the blood and guts mysteries that are all the rage today.

When I open an LDS novel, I never worry. I might not like the story, but I will never be offended. I may explore the hearts and experiences of people who see the world differently than I do, but I’m never going to be fed the lies that evil is good, and good is passé.

This doesn’t just apply to fiction. There are some amazingly wise and insightful members out there who are sharing their expertise in such areas as understanding the scriptures, to how to run a family, teach a class or have a closer relationship with your spouse. I wouldn’t touch a book on intimacy in a national books store, but there are several tasteful and informative books on the subject, written by LDS experts.

C.S.: What do you wish you'd see more from LDS authors?

DEANNE: I read a lot of books so that I can review them on LDSBookcorner.com, and what I’d like to see are more authors continuing to hone their skills. In my opinion, the number one problem is the first chapter. There are so many books that are just wonderful, once you make it to chapter two. But how many new readers will push on?

On my website, I offer a feature called the Daily Chapter. For no charge, a visitor can sign up to receive five or six pages each day Monday through Friday of a select book or novel with a different book chosen each week. This allows readers to sample a number of new authors as well as their old favorites, and buy the ones that catch their interest.

But to catch a reader’s interest, those first twenty pages have to reach right out, grab the reader and pull them in. Once they’re hooked, if the plot is exciting, the threat is truly threatening, and the characters are real and likeable, then people will flock to buy the book.

~~~~

I'd like to thank Deanne. Next week, we'll learn about her very own book that is slated for release soon. Until then, feel free to stop by her site at LDSBookcorner.com and sign up for the Daily Chapter. The writers participating are some of the top selling LDS authors like Jennie Hansen, Shannon Guymon, and more. She'll also be showcasing some lesser known but equally talented up and coming writers. LDS writing has grown up a lot in the last ten years, so sign up and find out what’s out there.

And while you are on the site, you are free to browse the library and explore some of the hundreds of books she has on display.

If you like what you see, pass the word around. if you know of an LDS author that isn’t on her site yet, please drop her a line at ldsbookcorner@gmail.com and tell her about them.

The snow is all gone...

The snowfall is all gone. And so are the piled up heaps of snow in our lawn. They were pretty; the heaps in store parking lots were not. They were filthy and looked like coal. Probably because the city here doesn't use salt to prevent skidding on snowy, iced roads. Instead, they appear to use dirt. Thus, the snow in the main areas begins to lose its beauty fairly fast. :0)

It's all new to my kids, though, so it's fun to watch their faces!

First Snowfall

Moving from the tropics to snow country has been enlightening, to say the least. Frozen doors on the car that won't open, shoveling driveways, temps down to 6 degrees...wow, it's been so cool (no pun intended).

Seriously, it's been a fun experience to shovel a driveway for the first time in my life. Although now I understand why a person would buy an expensive snow shovel...my cheapy $2 one from D.I. (used) has already cracked. Sigh. Guess I need to join the "big boys" and buy a really nice shovel to last out the winter.

My kids first exposure to snow came this October when a freak snowfall hit our area. My 13-year-old daughter cried out while holding the white fluffy stuff, "It feels like cotton!" Not sure why that paralleled for her, but it worked and I thought it adorable.

About to Move

Yes, it's true. We're about to move. Across the country. To a way-long-far-far-away place from where I live currently. And I admit, I was feeling some trepidation about this.

Until I flew out to Utah to speak at a BYU EFY. My last evening there was free; as a result, I chose to go to the temple in Provo. While huffing and puffing my way up the incline towards that beautiful building (yes, I admit it -- I need more exercise! [grin]), I could not but help notice the beauty of the west.

Palm trees may sway here in the south, but so do hurricanes. And to be honest, now that I think about it (and that the first hurricane has already formed this season), the move now can't happen soon enough.

Wow. Look at this quote. It quite moved me today when I read it at Meridian Magazine:

It is a denial of the divinity within us to doubt our potential and our possibilities ("The Responsibility for Welfare Rests with Me and My Family,” Ensign, May 1986).

The next time I doubt my potential, I'll be thinking about this quote. What about you?

As a matter of fact, I've been thinking a lot recently about my roles here on earth. In the past I've viewed myself in different ways. When I was "gigging" in lounges, country clubs, etc., I had the time of my life and I viewed myself as a vocalist. When I was performing on stage as an actress and in films, I viewed myself as an actress. Later, when I was composing and writing stage productions, I viewed myself as a composer and playwright.

I could list a myriad of roles I've been in (no pun intended). But I guess that's not the point. The point is that at times I've been confused with all the opportunities I've had in the past. At times I look at it all and wonder if, when I return to the judgment bar of God, if He'll be pleased with my endeavors or disappointed I didn't do more.

The most important "role" I've ever played is that of wife and mother, alongside being a daughter of God. It is imperative I never lose sight of this, even in the midst of all the other activities of my life. And then that's when the self-doubt enters in. Has it all been good enough? And the discouragement seeks to implode my efforts.

So the helpfulness of "It is a denial of the divinity within us to doubt our potential..." greatly helps me. Next time I sit wondering what I should do next, I'll remember that regardless of what I do, I must not deny the divinity which God placed firmly within me as His child.

J. Scott Savage

Speaking of creative endeavors, come meet a very talented writer who is prepping to set the world in motion with his book tour this summer. More details will be forthcoming, but in the meantime, take a look at J. Scott Savage!

Your Best Creative Energy...

Here is another terrific quote from the First Presidency message in January 1971:

"Are you devoting your best creative energy to the most important unit in society--the family?" (Ensign, Jan 1971)

This can be a painful choice for an artist in any field. Most people drawn to the arts already have locked up within them the essential ability to hunker down and hibernate during creative sessions. I know for myself, it can be painful to draw my head above water and take a breath. I enjoy being submerged in fluid creativity, only barely registering the "glub, blug, glub" of people talking to me above my little pond.

And yet, here it is. A quote from nearly 40 years ago reminding me that I am to be a mother before and beyond any other artistic endeavor on this earth.

Message from the First Presidency, Jan 1971

I've started on my journey mentioned below of reading every Ensign published since the magazine's beginning in January 1971. As I did so today, I was touched by the quote on the inside of the flap:

"My dear brothers and sisters: This is a rare opportunity to reach members of the Church in this way. It is estimated that nearly 350,000 families will receive the first issue of our new adult magazine, the Ensign, and this recorded message.

"As you listen and read, may I remind you of just how important the family unit is in the overall plan of our Father in heaven. In fact, the Church organization really exists to assist the family and its members in reaching exaltation" (Joseph Fielding Smith, "Message from the First Presidency," Ensign, Jan 1971, inside front cover).

Think on the times nearly 40 years ago when this was published. TV programs were tame, movies were too. X-rated media could only be obtained in the seediest of locations on the "wrong side" of town. So look at the prophetic nature of this message from the First Presidency of the church in 1971:

"Family unity and family commitment to the gospel are so important that the adversary has turned much of his attention to the destruction of families in our society. On every side there is an attack on the basic integrity of the family as the foundation of what is good and noble in life....As the forces of evil attack the individual by tearing away at his family roots, it becomes critical for Latter-day Saint parents...." (I'll stop quoting here, but invite you to read the rest -- it is an amazing message.)

Just think if every person reading that magazine had doubled their efforts to save the family of their generation! What impact would that have now one and two (and perhaps three) generations later? For those who stay tapped into what is happening at the U.N. and in other locations, the breakdown of the family has reached monumental proportions.

My New Personal Project

This has been on my mind for some time, but I'm just now getting around to it (shame on me :0).

A few months back I discovered that every issue of the Ensign magazine, since its initiation in January 1971, is now online. My new goal is to read every issue published -- from Jan 1971 to current.

Yep, it's a tall order. Yep, it may take me from now till the millennium to complete it. But I'm excited. There's a part inside of me that is hungry for the gospel on a deeper level than I've yet known.

So I'll be taking notes and recording them here in my "Seriously" blog. And why is it that we blog now (yes, this is a segue in topic)? It amazes me. Most people I know have 3-5 blogs, if not more. I write for several. It's an odd thing ...

I think it all means we were sent to earth to record, record, record our life's journey. Talk about the records in heaven -- there sure are a bunch now down here on earth! :0)

James Dashner and The 13th Reality

I love books that are good. But who doesn't? And now I've found one that is not only good, it is excellent. It now sits on my shelf right next to my all time favorite book, The Phantom Tollbooth. Who is this newcomer to my coveted shelf of only-the-finest books?

It is The Thirteenth Reality, by James Dashner, just released March 3, 2008. Actually The Thirteenth Reality is the title of the series. Although I do have an ARC copy of the book, I am waiting with baited break to get an official hardback!

This is why I marched into my local Borders bookstore yesterday and demanded a copy (nicely, of course). They have 6 on order and my name is the first in the list to get my copy (I'm sure it's because I asked so nicely). You better run to your bookstore and do the same, because they will go fast when they come in!

After reading The Thirteenth Reality, I had to learn more about the background of the book. So I emailed James Dashner, the 13th Reality man and author himself, if he would oblige. And to make it fun - since The 13th Reality is YA fiction (like the Harry Potter series) - I let my kids do the actual interviewing!

David is six years old; Cassandra is twelve (the names have been changed to protect the innocent. :0)

~~~~~~

David: How did you come up with the idea for The 13th Reality?

JAMES: It came from some serious brain pounding after being given one week to come up with a proposal for my eventual publisher. I'd submitted a different book to them, and they liked my writing, but didn't feel that particular book was right for them. So I worked my tail off to write a proposal for an idea that had always bounced around in my head: The concept of a group helping kids by sending out riddles and clues, but also horrible, dangerous things that try to stop them while they solve the mystery.

David: What was it like when you were writing your very first book about Jimmy Fincher compared to now?

JAMES: Totally different. Then, I didn't know if it would get published. This was done with a deadline. I really like the second way!!

David: How did you come up with more ideas for the next 13th Reality book? Isn't that a lot of work?

JAMES: I'm just always thinking, I guess. And when a cool idea pops in my head, I write it down.

David: How old will Tick be in the second book?

JAMES: It ends right at his 14th birthday.


(And now for questions from my daughter, Cassandra.)

Cassandra: What was the funnest part about writing The Thirteenth Reality?

JAMES: Creating Mothball and Rutger, I think.

Cassandra: How did you come up with your characters?

JAMES: Most of them are based on people I know or characters I've loved in other books.

Cassandra: Who was the hardest character to write about?

JAMES: Mistress Jane. I wanted her to be evil, but have a human side. I think I did a much better job in Book 2.

Cassandra: Who was your favorite character to write about?

JAMES: Tick. He's basically me.

Cassandra: What was the hardest chapter to write in Curious Letters?

JAMES: The one where MG explains everything. I wished I had spread that out more.

Cassandra: How did it feel when you were finished? Sad to be at the end? Relieved?

JAMES: I was beyond ecstatic. Not sad, because I knew I had 4 more books to write in the series.

Cassandra: How do you start writing a book? Where do you get your inspiration?

JAMES: My inspiration comes from loving to create stories. I start by creating a very simple outline and then going from there.

Cassandra: What do you do when you run out of ideas while writing?

JAMES: Honestly, I don't very often. If I do, I stop and think. Seriously!

Cassandra: What is your writing schedule like?

JAMES: All over the board. But mostly in the evenings and Saturdays.

Cassandra: How do you plot out your books?

JAMES: I just do a simple list of the main events I think need to happen. Then I expand that a little and develop how they will happen. It usually just ends up as 2 pages of detailed notes. Then I start writing, referring back to that outline often and making further notes or changings things as needed.

Cassandra: What is your favorite part about writing books?

JAMES: Coming up with cool plot twists and writing exciting action scenes. Also, hearing that a reader liked my book.

And now a question from me ...

C.S.: What advice do you have for new writers?

JAMES: Well, there's a lot on my blog, but here's something: Rejection is part of the game. It hurts, and it will always hurt. But no matter how good you are, no matter how brilliant your work, the odds are astronomical that you will never receive a rejection. Or 10, or 20, or 100. If you learn to accept it and keep submitting, reworking when necessary what you�ve written, you�ll find a home.

~~
I'd like to thank James Dashner for the time he took to answer two new fans' questions - in spite of his busy schedule. He is touring around the United States doing book signings. Check the official Thirteenth Reality website to see if he is coming to a city near you.

Very few books make it to my highly coveted only-the-best book shelf, but The Thirteenth Reality now has its very own spot. This book is that good. In fact, it is not just good, it is excellent. You don't have to take my word for it . . . just check out these readers' opinions!

For all my readers, run to your local Borders, Barnes & Noble, or Books-a-Million and request your very own copy . . . before they are gone.

Old Testament Saul, David, and Solomon

I am a seminary teacher. Working with teens is an amazing privilege. Doing so in the wee hours of the morning each week day is a challenge. But it is all worth it.

As we've studied Saul, David, and Solomon, I've been led through sorrowful paths. Here are some of my thoughts I shared in an article recently over at the LDS portion of BellaOnline.com.

~~~~~

SAUL

Contrast these two scriptures:

1 Samuel 9:2
"And [Kish] had a son, whose name was Saul, a choice young man, and a goodly: and there was not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he:..."

Now here is Saul some years later:

1 Samuel 13:14
"But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the Lord hath sought him a man after his own heart,...because thou hast not kept that which the Lord commanded [him]."

Saul began as a man that was described as "there was not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he...", yet with the passage of time the Lord removed the kingdom from Saul because he had "not kept that which the Lord commanded thee."

Many today know of Biblical Saul. Not only did he decide to worship how, where and what he may (see 1 Samuel 13:8-14), but he continued to attempt to kill David (who was the Lord's newly anointed servant and future king); Saul even tried to kill his own son, Jonathan, for speaking rationally about David (see 1 Samuel 20:29-33).

Saul's choices perhaps made sense to him, but they were willful choices and selfish ones at best. No wonder he lost all that God had given him (the sad account in its entirety is found in 1 Samuel in the Old Testament).

DAVID

Contrast the following two scriptures. The first is David speaking as a youth. He is aghast and enraged that one such as Goliath would defile the God of Israel and His people. Note David's honor and valor!

1 Samuel 17:45
"Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defiled."

Flash forward years later. David requires that Bathsheba "lay with him." She becomes pregnant. David wants to cover it up. He commands that Uriah, Bathsheba's husband, come home; his intent is to give Uriah a "weekend pass" with his wife.

Uriah honorably balks. He now is the one with honor. He cannot stomach forgetting his fellow soldiers fighting a vicious war. David's response to this honest response? The next morning, David sends Uriah to the front lines of battle to have him killed. Now who has defiled whom?

2 Samuel 11:14-15
"And it came to pass in the morning, that David wrote a letter to Joab, and sent it by the hand of Uriah.

"And he wrote in the letter, saying, Set ye Uriah in the forefront of the hottest battle, and retire ye from him, that he may be smitten, and die."

SOLOMON

Contrast these two scriptures. The first is when Solomon is a new king. The Lord asks of Solomon whatever Solomon wills. Solomon requests wisdom, which immensely pleases the Lord:

1 Kings 3:11-12
"And God said unto him, Because thou has asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment;

"Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee."

Now flash forward to Solomon years later in his old age:

1 Kings 11:5-8
"For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites.

"And Solomon did evil in the sight of the Lord,...

"Then did Solomon build an high place for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab, in the hill that is before Jerusalem, and for Molech, the abomination of the children of Ammon."

For those who are not familiar with ancient pagan gods, the Lord found pagan worship ceremonies more than repugnant. For example, worship of Molech and other ancient pagan systems utilized even infant sacrifice at times (see Samuel Fallows, Bible Encyclopedia, s.v. "Ashtoreth," 1:168).

Not only did Solomon participate in worshipping ancient pagan gods during the end of his life, he actually built places of pagan worship as we can read above. According to Biblical verse and commentaries, these activities were reprehensible to God due to human sacrifice involved as well as the sexual orgies and the turning of hearts away from the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Summary

What do Saul, David, and Solomon all have in common? A very disheartening and sorrowful fall from grace. What do their stories have for us? That we must watch ourselves in every manner to ensure that we do not follow lives of selfish abandonment.

The Lord watches His people. He gives prophets to teach us to also watch our own lives. As King Benjamin said in the Book of Mormon:

"But this much I can tell you, that if ye do not watch yourselves, and your thoughts, and your words, and your deeds, and observe the commandments of God, and continue in the faith of what ye have heard concerning the coming of our Lord, even unto the end of your lives, ye must perish. And now, O man, remember, and perish not" (Mosiah 4:30).

How urgent to learn from these ancient Biblical men; how important that we continue to "watch ourselves" so that we will be ready for the Savior's coming when He actually is here. Truly a sobering thought.

Now is a Great Time to Prepare!

"Now is a Great Time to Prepare!" is a line off the back cover of Emergency Essentials DVD, "Family Preparedness Plan." I'd ordered the DVD with some other emergency prep items. It came this week and I sat down to watch the 30 minute video tonight.

Although the emergencies discussed in the video could overwhelm me, I'm choosing not to take that mental approach. The details in the video were great. It followed a simple outline:

1. Self-Reliance
2. Adaptability
3. Step-By-Step Progress

While it was obvious that the video had been filmed some time ago (i.e. it referenced payphones), the information the DVD contained is excellent. I've ordered a copy for each distant family member.

It's just like they said on the DVD: when you are prepared you "shall not fear." I too want to be able to "sleep while the wind blows" (as per the story told in the film). And this little DVD is the perfect thing to help me do so.

I've still got areas to finish in my emergency preparations. How 'bout you?

On Down Days

Today was one of my low energy days. You might know the kind, where the fatigue is so great that you have to spend it in bed.

So I pulled out my scriptures and began reading, prowling from page to page in no certain order. I stumbled across (or perhaps was led to?) Doctrine and Covenants 101:38:

And seek the face of the Lord always, that in patience ye may possess your souls, and ye shall have eternal life.

The word seek in the phrase seek the face of the Lord always caught my eye, and I began cross referencing similar verses. What I found helped me greatly, on this low energy day.

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face,...then will I hear from heaven,...(2 Chronicles 7:14).

The cross-referencing also led me to Amos 5:6. Oh, how I love these Old Testament prophets. How diligently they sought to declare God's words, to warn of pending judgments, and to witness of the Lord's love for all. Here is a phrase that is repeated throughout Amos 5:

"Seek ye me, and ye shall live..." (Amos 5:4).

"Seek the Lord, and ye shall live;..." (vs 6).

"Seek good, and not evil, that ye may live..." (vs 14).

"...love good, and establish judgment in the gate;... (vs 15).

"...let judgment runs down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream" (vs 24).

I realized after cross-referencing these scriptures (and more) that even though my physical body may fatigue at times, that when I seek the Lord through scripture study, my spiritual "body" can revive the physical through the grace of God, bringing life and joy.

So not a bad day after all - even though I needed to spend it in bed!

Experienced a Setback?

I had a new perspective today on setbacks that come in life. I was reading in the Bible in 1 Samuel about David's struggles with King Saul. King Saul repeatedly attempted to murder David; David had several opportunities to kill Saul.

The difference between the two? David refused to hurt the Lord's anointed.

The end result: David needed to stay on the run. At some point, David finally flees to the Philistines, the Israelite's enemies. He stays because of the goodness of the Philistine king, Achish. David is a help to the king, so when the other princes complain about David's desire to fight for them in a pending battle, Achish is frustrated yet has his hands tied.

As a result ... David experiences a setback. He wants more than anything to aid the Philistines in their endeavors - for it was, after all, the Philistines who finally have given him peace. But the princes in their prejudice and mistrust of an Israelite, refuse David's offer of help for their upcoming battle.

David pleads to Achish: "But what have I done? and what hast thou found in thy servant so long as I have been with thee unto this day, that I may not go fight against the enemies of my lord the king (1 Sam 29:8)?"

Achish's sorrowful response: "David, I know that thou art good in my sight, as an angel of God: notwithstanding, the princes of the Philistines have said, He shall not go up with us to the battle" (vs 9)."

So much of the Biblical account records physical events, not "heart events." David must leave. I wonder at his emotional response to being stymied in his fervent desires. But here's the point, at least it was for me. When a setback occurs, I realized today that often the Lord's hand is in it.

Unbeknownst to David, his two wives had been abducted back in Ziklag and the entire settlement burned to the ground. It was only after David returns home, that he discovers he was needed there! (See 1 Samuel 29 and 1 Samuel 30 to read the whole story.)

The "ah, ha" moment for me came quite strongly today as I pondered the meaning of this account. From the moment that David was forced to go home, to when he found a dying enemy soldier who led David and his men to the "bad guys," the Lord's hand was all over that! The timing was too important. David's abducted wives needed him at home, as did the rest of the people.

In fact, we read in the next chapter (1 Samuel 30) in verse 18 that "David recovered all that the Amalekites had carried away: and David rescued his two wives. And there was nothing lacking...neither sons nor daughters...nor any thing that they had taken to them: David recovered them all" (1 Sam 30:18-19).

Indeed, setbacks may very much be the Lord acting in mercy when we expect it least.

Flying the Wrong Direction

This morning while driving home after seminary (yes, I get to teach seminary to some of the Lord's terrific youth), I watched a bird fly at odds against his partners. While most were flying towards the rising sun, this insistent bird flew at a direct angle across their path.

To my astonishment, he not only nearly clipped a fellow bird once but in all total, three times! I watched, amazed that he would come so close to injuring his fellow birds.

I mused on the singularity of that scene. Birds are known for flying in "flocks" (or whatever the scientific term is ... you know a "gaggle" of geese, etc.). But this bird insisted in flying at odds with those around him. Not only was it alarming to watch, but it gave me great thought.

Do I do this? Do I ever get so insistent on doing things my own way that I nearly injure others ... and myself?

It was something that stayed with me for some time ... and still does.

When was the last time you read, as an American, your Constitution and the Amendments contained therein? If you don't read them nor study to understand them, how will you recognize when they are being taken away?

I was greatly disturbed at the following email I received in my email box today. Ignoring all other issues, our Constitutional liberties are being chipped away. It used to be slow chipping; not so anymore.

Nearly every week I read something that seeks to erode our Constitutional liberties. This is the latest and is concerning (or should be) to every individual who cares to protect the rights we so freely and easily speak of. If we are not vigilant, if we do not wake up to the current tide of events, our rights will soon be gone.

This is what the Constitutional 1st Amendment states about the right of religious freedom:

U.S. Constitution: First Amendment

First Amendment - Religion and Expression

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.


Call Your U.S. Representative today to oppose ENDA. It attacks most of the First Amendment. Here is more information, from articulate Donald E. Wildmon, Founder & Chairman of the American Family Association:

"The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) H.R. 2015 is likely to be voted on this week in the U.S. House. ENDA is aimed at providing heightened protections for a particular sexual behavior- homosexuality. It would grant special consideration on the basis of "sexual orientation" or "gender identity" that would not be extended to other employees in the workplace. That could spell trouble for Christian business owners, churches and faith-based groups. Proponents of the bill quickly point to "religious exemptions" in the bill, but most agree that it is a sham.

"Here is more information about ENDA H.R. 2015 from our friends at the Family Research Council:

* ENDA affords special protection to a group that is not disadvantaged.

* The issue is not job discrimination: It is whether private businesses will be forced by law to accommodate homosexual activists' attempts to legitimize homosexual behavior.

* The first "religious exemption" clause is very narrow and offers no clear protection to church-related businesses: Religious schools or charitable organizations, religious bookstores, or any business affiliated with a church or denomination fall outside this narrow definition, and could presumably be required to hire homosexual applicants.

* The second "religious exemption" clause fails to offer protection for all hiring by church-related organizations or businesses. The position of a teacher of religion at a church-related school would be exempt, but, e.g., that of a biology teacher would not. Thus, most of the teachers and staff at a religious school would be covered by ENDA, which means that the church would be forced to hire homosexual applicants for such positions-despite the fact that their lifestyle would be in direct opposition to the religious beliefs of the organization or company.

* It is unlikely that the "religious exemption" included in the bill would survive court challenge: Institutions that could be targeted include religious summer camps, the Boy Scouts, Christian bookstores, religious publishing houses, religious television and radio stations, and any business with fifteen or more employees.

* ENDA violates employers' and employees' Constitutional freedoms of religion, speech and association. The proposed legislation would prohibit employers from taking their most deeply held beliefs into account when making hiring, management, and promotion decisions. This would pose an unprecedented intrusion by the federal government into people's lives.

* ENDA would approvingly bring private behavior considered immoral by many into the public square. By declaring that all sexual preferences are equally valid, ENDA would change national policy supporting marriage and family.

"Clearly, this is an enormous threat to the freedom of religion and also places unfair burdens on businesses, which should be allowed to make employment decisions based on their religious convictions and business needs.

"Urgent! Click here to contact your U.S. Representative. Ask him or her to oppose the Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2007 (ENDA) H.R. 2015."

"Thanks for caring enough to get involved. If you find our efforts worthy, would you consider making a donation to help us continue?

"Sincerely,
Don

"Donald E. Wildmon, Founder & Chairman
American Family Association

"P.S. Please forward this e-mail message to your family and friends!"
____

People are free to choose the lifestyle they want -- but not free to choose to disintegrate the God-given rights we claim through the Constitution.

I am so grateful for good individuals everywhere who watch for Constitutional liberties and the efforts to erode them. Will you join me in the fight to preserve our Constitution? Thank you!

P.S. Emphasis added in above paragraphs to help make clear the danger "ENDA" poses.

I'm always surprised at the difference in my life when I'm reading my scriptures versus when I am not. I sometimes mused if the difference was simply a contented feeling of "obedience."

Yet it is more, much more, than just a great feeling of checking off scripture study for the day on a long list of "to-do"s. There is so much more to it. Scripture study isn't just an obedience-thing; it is instead a radio-reception thing.

What I mean is that the more I read my scriptures, the more sensitive I am to the quiet still voice of the Spirit. By picking up the living word each day, I am tuning my soul to the eternal direction of God's will for my life. As I do so, I get better and better at hearing His voice in my life.

It's a cool thought.

Your Favorite Book?

Ever heard the quote: "We will yet have Miltons and Shakespeares of our own..."? Orson F. Whitney stated this long ago.

Forget the fact that perhaps you have never read any works by Milton or perhaps the only thing you know of Shakespeare is that taught by your 9th grade teacher. What really counts is that quality literature has the power to move and change souls.

To celebrate just such books, the prestigious Whitney Awards have been born. Begun to stimulate the search for quality LDS literature, the Whitney Award is in its infancy and first year. Yet just as the acorn contains immense potential, the Whitney Awards seek those books whose impact resonates and continues to expand through space.

Have you experienced such in your life? Do you have a favorite book? If so, nominate that book today for the new prestigious Whitney Award! Click here for the nomination form and further details.

I just read a most inspirational post by dear friend and talented writer, Lori Nawyn. You have to read it, especially if you too get swamped by chicken-house-itis like I do.

"Who would want to read my thoughts," I muse all too consistently to myself. Recently I'd written to a friend that sometimes I feel overwhelmed with lack of self-esteem.

So why is it I find myself privately writing again and again yet another story, yet another chapter in yet another book. I was just telling my husband yesterday that I think I average about 5000 words a week!

But I tuck all this privately away, as if I'm ashamed - much as Lori described. Why? Personally I seem to believe that none of it really would make a difference.

The timing of her post is interesting, given my recent decision to just ignore the icky voice that taunts me and my writing. So thank you, Lori. No more henhouse for me! :0)

Warmly,

Cindy

Just as I came to the conclusion that I wanted to post links to some really great books and authors, James Dashner beat me to it (in a round-about sort of way).

First, let me tell you a little bit about him. James Dashner is a writer that has a way of creeping his arm up your sleeve and pinching you when you least expect it...even though he is 500 miles away. :0)

That's right - not a literal pinch, but a bookly sort of one. If you want an EXCELLENT read, you have got to pick up one of his YA books from his Jimmy Fincher Saga. But I warn you...once you start reading, you will not want to stop.

You are fortunate, really, because if you haven't discovered his books yet, at least you won't have to wait what feels like YEARS to read the next one simply because it's not in print yet. This unfortunate situation happened to my son and me, after reading James' first book. To our dismay, the rest of the Jimmy Fincher series weren't published yet!

Well, now there are four Jimmy Fincher books, so you won't sit in endless misery waiting, wanting more "pinching" into amazing new realities of thought and adventure.

Watch for James Dashner. He's now breaking into the national market with an entirely new book. Definitely one author to enjoy - even if the power of his books leaves you breathless and rubbing your arm. :0)

Here is the link to his website.

And here is the link to his blog, for intriguing peeks into this author's mind and oh-so-cool stories!

Creativity

Just gave a creativity workshop last night. I get such a kick helping launch other people! What a treat to see the participants' eyes light up as we went from one creativity exercise/game to another.

Creativity doesn't need to be hard. And I love showing people just how easy it is to meet'n'greet'n'play with their inner muse! Stay tuned for more details about my new book, "Breaking Through Writer's Block." It's a compendium of creativity exercises and games that will stimulate the most latent of creative types!

"My Burden is Light"

This summer has been a busy one. We've sold our home, packaged up our goods and moved to a home half the previous size (makes for creative arrangings). Moving is such the laborious and time intensive activity.

In fact, I traveled to speak at EFY during the middle of all that and if it weren't for some very good friends' help, we never would have been able to be out of the house in time. The very next week, my husband and son went on a scouting high adventure for days on end. Then soon after that, my son was hit by a car while on his bike!

But as if things weren't "interesting" enough, my husband also traveled to Greece to meet his relatives for the first time - right soon after we moved into our new place - with so much to do in his absence.

All this in the middle of my husband working full-time, going to school full-time, and participating in two different internships, on top of his church service. And both of our family's computers have gone on the blink, making it nearly impossible to email or to follow through with my own responsibilities.

But above and beyond that, I've had to deal with chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia flare ups. Ugh...what frustrations! These "fibro" moments are a challenge, never being able to predict which days are going to be "high energy" days. With so much to do and so many writing projects I'm wanting to complete, it's been difficult at best - on top of all the other summer '07 demands. Top that with the conditions in the world currently and at times it has felt overwhelming.

All this is why I'm so grateful for the scriptures. I love them. They mean so much to me. And it is on days that I'm feeling low that verses like the following ones mean all the world to me. They make the burdens become truly light. The peace that comes during scripture study fills my heart and helps me re-gain the peace that only the Savior of mankind can offer:

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

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.

For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (Matt. 11:28-30)

What a blessing that the Father of us all has given us the scriptures - to aid us in our happy AND sad moments. May your burdens be equally as light!

Warmly,

C.S. Bezas

I've Been Tagged :0)

Marsha Ward, award-winning writer, editor and author of western novels, has tagged me! The rules are that you find five interesting facts related to you somehow. It's for you, the reader, to figure how they are related. :0)

So here are mine:

Ramses II
The Republican Party in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
The state of Tennessee abolishing slavery
Astrid Jacobsen
Katharine, Duchess of Kent

Now it's your turn!

(And I must say, Marsha is my hero...my grandmother wrote westerns back in the time when women had to use men's names to break into the genre. Marsha writes amazing westerns and uses her own name. You must visit her site - she is an amazingly talented woman.)

The Lord is good. That is all I can say. Thus far, it would appear the internal bleeding in my son's eyes has not returned. As of yet, the doctors do not know what caused the problem.

But the most important question of the day is, "Could I say 'the Lord is good' if the bleeding continued?"

I think all too often we link our allegiance to God as long as He is linking good things to us. But one need only think on the 20 years that Joseph spent in ancient Egypt in bondage before the Lord chose to reveal His hand (and what a mighty moment that was). I can only imagine the astonishment Joseph felt when it was revealed that he now would be second only to the Pharoah in all the land.

But the twenty years prior spent in bondage? What kind of a soul can continue to look to God and live spiritually, even if the end-of-the-story cannot be seen (in Joseph's case for two decades)?

Those were the thoughts running through my mind as the weeks went by while we waited to see if my son would have any further problems with his eyes. I can only hope that I'm not a fair-weather friend to God.

Perhaps a serious topic, but then again my blog is called "Seriously! :0)

Have a beauty-full day!

When Your Son Might Be Blind

I have taken my oldest son, who is 15, to a doctor every day for the last four days. The saga began when he got up Sunday morning and while showering, thought he saw a "worm" or something squirmy on his shoulder. But when he looked away, the worm went with his line of sight.

The "floater" continued to increase in irritation by Sunday night. So Monday I took him to his pediatrician, who said that he saw nothing wrong with his eyes, but would send him to an opthmalogist to be sure.

[The amazing miracle is that although the opthmalogist is booked out until July, we got in within 24 hours. Never have I seen this before, even with my youngest son who apparently has SMA and has nearly died from it on a number of occasions. Even in urgent--but not emergency/911--situations, it's taken a few days to a week before we could get into a specialist.]

So day 2 we show up at the opthmalogist. He declares that he sees nothing wrong, but just in case, refers us to a retina specialist...one of the leading ones in the area. I figured NOW we'd at best have to wait a few days...which was a bit concerning since a retina detachment is scary.

But not so! Now it's day 3 and in less than 24 hours, we are sitting in the retina specialist's office [Yes, another fast scheduling miracle!] This is when things got dicy. Normally this retina specialist is laid back and very calm (he's my own doctor and I've seen him in action). Not so today. Once he finishes examining both of my son's eyes, he turns and declares that they are hemorrhaging inside. "15 year olds do not have eyes that hemmhorage," he states rather seriously. "Potentially this means he could have a rare blood/bleeding disorder, cancer, diabetes, or even mounting renal problems."

Good thing we didn't stop after the first two doctors. And a great case for specialists, with finer precision tools!

So on day 4, we're now in another doctor's office, having a full physical for my son, after which we go to a lab (nightmare of an experience, in their disorganization...but THAT's a story for another day!) for blood work, glucose testing, etc.

Now on day 5 we wait. But the thing I have to share is several-fold:

1) There are many parents who go through worse things with their kids, whether cancer or some other difficult disease. There are parents who lose their children to death. I know the sting of that. My second child died of SIDS. Thus, my first thought in all of this is gratitude it's not worse (at least, for the news we have right now).

2) On day two of this excursion, as I contemplated the simple possibility that my son's retina perhaps was detaching--not yet knowing that both eyes were bleeding inside--the Spirit descended upon me. In a moment, I was taught that the Lord knows our lives. He knows our needs. And if my son needed to be blind in one eye (or now flashing forward and translate that to a rare blood/bleeding disorder, etc.), the Lord in his goodness will give that because he is wise.

3) I was taught by the Spirit that we can't (obviously) see the future. Thus, we cannot see how today's events can pivot us into more important or more needful or better directions. Therefore, in wisdom, it is best not to murmur or complain when a so-called tragedy appears before us. Because if we had God's perspective, we wouldn't see it as a tragedy at all, but a gift.

Words come hard right now in an effort to transcribe the peace that descended on my heart when the Spirit gave me that moment of insight. But somehow I knew, I felt, I soared in the knowledge that if my son became blind in one eye, that I suddenly felt no need to question it. The pain and concern and fear were gone, and instead, peace took their place. Indescribable peace.

I don't know what faces my son, if anything. But I have learned that God loves us and that the gifts given us in sometimes sudden moments may appear puzzling at the time, but even so, their exquisite nature will someday be made manifest to us. And at that time we'll desire to fall before the feet of the Lord and proclaim Him good.

The peace at that moment was indescribable, but amazing. It still lingers. And so now my family and I simply wait to find out the outcome of the blood work. I'm so grateful I can do so in peace.

"Nevertheless, ye are blessed, for the testimony which ye have borned is recorded in heaven for the angels to look upon; and they rejoice over you, and your sins are forgiven you." ~~D&C 62:3

I love this scripture and have it at the beginning of my book, Powerful Tips for Powerful Teachers as a dedication to all gospel instructors--individuals who work so hard to share the gospel and uplift the lives of others.

It is so gratifying to hear positive comments from those who have read Powerful Tips. That really is the thing an author hopes for...to make a difference in the life of one individual. If there is more than one that benefitted thereby, so much the better.

Now on to the next project: a joint book package done with graphic artist Lori Nawyn. We've submitted it to a publisher and will now wait to hear back. Life is so amazing. I just wish my chronic fatigue didn't get in the way like it does sometimes!

One of the greatest privileges I have is that of performing. I love being able to weave sound and tone through the air with music.

Tomorrow my husband is going to be the high council speaker in a single's ward. I've been asked also to speak and to perform a musical number in the same service. This has become the highlight of my week, as I've contemplated prepping for this. I'll be playing a blend of two hymns, #294 Love at Home and #300 Families Can Be Together Forever.

The theme is families and God-like love. Eventually I hope to be able to learn how to record and eventually upload the recordings for free here!

Becoming Balanced

I'm going to get really open here. Being a Mommy can seriously impede my focused "moving forward" in life. Maybe it's just me. Maybe you don't have the problem. But it has been a challenge for me to make sure my kids are getting the time the Lord would have them receive from "Mommy," yet still pursue my own interests.

After some struggle with balancing all my commitments, I decided to drop every personal interest and focus on my family. Not a bad choice in and of itself. But it didn't feel quite right, especially after musing on certain elements I'd been told previously about my gifts and talents.

I'm still trying to figure it out. But here's now how my day goes:

• Get up and teach seminary in the wee hours of the day.
• Come home and sneak back into bed for an hour or two for a few more zzzzz's. :0)
• Get up with my kids and get breakfast.
• Start our homeschool (we have a BLAST with this and my 11 year old daughter has decided she is now a geographer--she has discovered she's quite gifted in learning and retaining knowledge about the world, it's countries, cultures, and people! Seeing the light shine in her eyes is a delight for me).
• Finish in time for lunch.
• Run errands and/or pick up my son from the high school. Let him practice driving for 30 minutes or so before heading home (wooooooh, is he 15 already????)
• Clean the house.
• Start dinner.
• Figure out how to squeeze in writing (but now I'm a bit pooped, plus have piano lessons and a seminary lesson to do/prepare).

Still trying to figure this all out. But I'm finding that the more I am organized, the easier it is to pull out a file and get going on a story project. (So now I only have five more boxes of creative works to go through to finish that organization. Wish me luck! ).

Wow, can it be 2007 already? It just seems like 1999 was yesterday (how cliche is that?) and the world was in preparation for the Y2K bug. Remember all that hysteria?

Well, this year I'm trying something new. A friend referred me to RejoiceIn2007.com and invited me to join her in creating New Year's resolutions that stick.

I decided to take her up on the invitation. I visited the site, joined (it's free), and have already established my "themes" for the year (you have to go to the site to understand the "theme" idea, but it's excellent).

So I'm now announcing to the world my themes for this year:

• Claim All Blessings
• Find All Friends
• Prepared in All Things.

There. Now you can follow up on me!