tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.comments2024-02-07T09:07:29.104-07:00The Goates NotesDavid B. Goateshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01978666830682045128noreply@blogger.comBlogger602125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-60022432637455037532024-02-07T09:07:29.104-07:002024-02-07T09:07:29.104-07:00I would be remiss for not acknowledging all of you...I would be remiss for not acknowledging all of you who check in with this humble blog page. I noted as I wrote this morning that the number of visitors has now topped 700,000. That is astounding for me to consider. Thanks for your loyal support.David B. Goateshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01978666830682045128noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-7899546166032927482024-01-21T11:55:36.027-07:002024-01-21T11:55:36.027-07:00Thank you, welcome aboard!Thank you, welcome aboard!David B. Goateshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01978666830682045128noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-4864234661861582252024-01-19T19:17:38.510-07:002024-01-19T19:17:38.510-07:00Beautiful! I just discovered your blog today. May ...Beautiful! I just discovered your blog today. May the Lord bless you for sharing all you have. May you be blessed each moment as you go through mortality and into the beyond. I would love to meet you and talk with you in the Spirit World.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-63976525702686164992023-12-24T22:50:12.812-07:002023-12-24T22:50:12.812-07:00I find comfort in knowing it was never about compe...I find comfort in knowing it was never about competition between us. Rather, we each have separate and distinct talents that merge into what becomes a true partnership in blessing and serving one another in a pure expression of love.David Goatesnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-64967744199671111382023-12-24T21:41:13.988-07:002023-12-24T21:41:13.988-07:00It is Christmas Eve and I am in the doldrums. I ha...It is Christmas Eve and I am in the doldrums. I have just read this post and the prior 2 regarding Patsy. They are masterfully written and are beautiful. I have been edified.<br /><br />I sometimes wonder if us husbands will be chastened a bit in the hereafter for not working as hard as our wives do or for not being more helpful. I'm trying to take more of the load but sometimes it seems the more I try the further behind her I get. I suppose it's because the more I try the more I see what she does. <br /><br />Anyway thanks for sharing and Merry Christmas r John jrnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-86219292343753530362023-11-29T22:22:52.555-07:002023-11-29T22:22:52.555-07:00This comment has been removed by the author.Brad Folkersenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05789013914647615651noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-66180735850515688272023-11-29T22:18:20.716-07:002023-11-29T22:18:20.716-07:00This comment has been removed by the author.Brad Folkersenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05789013914647615651noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-75487735310354051092023-11-09T21:02:06.354-07:002023-11-09T21:02:06.354-07:00I love what you said in #3. Very powerful to "...I love what you said in #3. Very powerful to "look for the spark of divinity within each one..." and that "they may always be remembered for the pure innocent children they once were before the temptations of the flesh overtook them." Love that!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-49527231697685799812023-10-31T12:42:10.487-06:002023-10-31T12:42:10.487-06:00Jesus Christ, by C. Bosseron Chambers. © Barnard F...Jesus Christ, by C. Bosseron Chambers. © Barnard Fine Art, Manchester Center, Vermont 05255.David B. Goateshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01978666830682045128noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-59183184164708973022023-10-29T12:10:39.608-06:002023-10-29T12:10:39.608-06:00I grew up with this large painting on our wall. I ...I grew up with this large painting on our wall. I am desperately trying to find out how to get ahold of one. My parents, of course still have it but I would love a copy.. my mom specifically said I was very attached to this painting since I was a small infant. If anyone knows how to obtain a print, please share!!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-76645843121519127862023-08-25T20:14:35.800-06:002023-08-25T20:14:35.800-06:00Great blog you hhaveGreat blog you hhavePS22https://ps22-section-pleneuf.blogspot.com/noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-25212244087881069092023-08-07T00:37:52.654-06:002023-08-07T00:37:52.654-06:00I am so sorry to hear about this. It's not an ...I am so sorry to hear about this. It's not an adequate expression, but all I can think to say is what a punch in the gut for you and your family. And yet you celebrated her life with holy remembrances and dancing, for it was marvelous!<br /><br />I have admired her from afar for quite some time. I marvel at the love that exists between the two of you and all your family.<br /><br />I have a wife of a somewhat similar temperament. I am always rebuffed whenever I suggest that she pull back a little or let someone else do whatever.<br /><br />I don't recall ever reading a finer tribute to one's spouse than what you've written here. I pray that the Lord's consolation be with you in this trying time of transition and also His guidance as you press forward without you beloved beside you, physicallyr john jrnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-83355788191416736032023-08-07T00:09:58.378-06:002023-08-07T00:09:58.378-06:00An impressive womanAn impressive womanr john jrnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-66207484331760187612023-07-27T13:06:36.671-06:002023-07-27T13:06:36.671-06:00John, I am always grateful when you check in with ...John, I am always grateful when you check in with your comments and insights. You are always thoughtful, even provocative, and I appreciate the depth of your discipleship. Blessings to you.David B. Goateshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01978666830682045128noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-80368436224152376022023-07-17T00:08:11.399-06:002023-07-17T00:08:11.399-06:00In conclusion, while I present a contrarian view, ...In conclusion, while I present a contrarian view, the important thing to know is that I sustain Pres. Nelson in his calling. He has taught and emphasized many important truths and principles. I might not get warm fuzzies of love from him, but that's not his job - it's my wife's! All Christians are called to willing submissiveness, and for us that includes heeding the prophets, even if there exist differences of opinion or outlook.<br /><br />I hope this hasn't been a downer. By nature, I always see the negative and I'm analytical to a fault. Someday I'll overcome the natural man.r john jrnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-61623997200426716262023-07-17T00:05:58.452-06:002023-07-17T00:05:58.452-06:00I am happy for you for your experience with your f...I am happy for you for your experience with your father and the principles to which he testified. That is wonderful.<br /><br />I have mixed feelings about the Nelson era in the Church. I am glad that he is proactive. He's a transformative president that we perhaps haven't seen since Pres. Kimball, with apologies to Pres. Benson & Hinckley. That said, I'm somewhat ambivalent about the changes. Two-hour church is a blessing to most but probably a loss for some - I think of the many lonely women I knew in the "mission field" where I was first a member, their hearts must have broken to discover that there'd be 33% less time getting rejuvenated and being fellowshipped by the saints. We who are surrounded by saints often don't realize the deep loneliness many members experience outside the Zion corridor - or even in our own midst.<br /><br />The Come Follow Me manual is nice, but frankly I felt a little insulted when it first came out. The implication was that we weren't smart enough or spiritual enough to teach our families without it. I never felt that way. Its appearance coincided with us becoming empty nesters. I've consulted it for personal study every year but this one. My wife and I haven't utilized it in our couple study. I've found it to have good food for thought, it's always good to get another perspective. But I've often been disappointed in what it chooses to focus on and what not to consider at all.<br /><br />I applaud the spirt of 'ministering', I've always said to myself and my family that HT & VT was our own personal ministry, in addition to the family. Most quorum leaders in my experience were only interested in getting stats and not reports on the families. When I was in HP leadership I conducted quarterly PPIs, but I think there was only one leader in my past who invited me to one and wanted to know about the families. So I'm glad monthly reporting is no longer required - it deterred all but the most conscientious leaders from the primary focus. But what I'm seeing is that ministering is not taken any more seriously than HT/VT - and maybe less. I'm having a harder time with it too, partly because my companions are no longer my sons and partly my own inertia or lack of care. But I also have 2 families who are averse to visits, so it ain't easy.<br /><br />Anyone who's been paying attention is not surprised that "temple" and "covenant" are overriding themes of Pres. Nelson's ministry. I wish we had a better phrase than "covenant path". It's accurate, but as an "ex-Gentile" I can affirm that it sounds kinda creepy to outsiders. If I was in charge, I'd have chosen different areas of emphasis than Pres. Nelson has. But hey, it's not my church. It isn't his either, so I have to trust that he's speaking for the Lord - and I do. BTW, I'm the ward T&FH leader!<br /><br />I'm a little aggravated by the way the temple ceremony is conducted now. I understand that it's explicitly adding more clarity, but I don't feel I need most of it. However, explaining the role of the Savior in all this is a good thing. It was always implicit but not elucidated much before. However, there is something not in the ceremony anymore that I think should still be there, but I don't recall what right now. Regardless, I am grateful for what the Spirit (with occasional hints from mortals) has taught me about temple symbolism. I'm glad some of it reinforces the doctrine of Christ as taught in the BOM. And just a couple of months ago I learned the meaning of a symbol that has eluded me for decades. I don't quite understand the 'why', but at least I know the 'what'.<br /><br />For whatever reason, some apostles resonate more with me than others. I've never been too 'attached' to Pres. Nelson. That said, you can't not admire him. He has more of the outward signs of perfection than anyone else I've known about in my life. How many other 98-year-olds are leading a worldwide organization, and with vitality?r john jrnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-66816750234105428692022-07-30T17:00:48.225-06:002022-07-30T17:00:48.225-06:00Great share, thanks for postingGreat share, thanks for postingDetroit Roofinghttps://www.find-roofing.com/us/roofing-contractors-michigan/detroit-roofing.shtmlnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-77773270046058702392022-04-28T08:42:43.331-06:002022-04-28T08:42:43.331-06:00Thank you, John. Once again, my friend, you have s...Thank you, John. Once again, my friend, you have struck a resounding chord within my soul. David B. Goateshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01978666830682045128noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-54909778769040624312022-04-28T07:03:20.579-06:002022-04-28T07:03:20.579-06:00By the forbidden fruit, death came into the world....By the forbidden fruit, death came into the world. By the "Firstfruits" of Him, even Jesus Christ, we have immortality with the option of eternal life by conditions. Forbidden fruits are ever prevalent <br /> just as the "firstfruits" of the gospel are freely available. Let us choose wisely the fruit that will determine our course.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-12183775278734533662022-04-28T00:33:59.551-06:002022-04-28T00:33:59.551-06:00Thank you. I just saw some videos showing the foib...Thank you. I just saw some videos showing the foibles of some of our leaders. They aren't perfect, as they'll tell you. I'd like to see them make some changes in how they present themselves, how they interface with the press, and members too. But in the end, what have the critics to offer? Do they offer, truth, beauty, or virtue? They want you to think they're offering freedom. But the freedom they celebrate is the freedom to sin. I've been there and can assure anyone that is not freedom. Besides, why would I want to follow anyone who aspires to tear down another person's faith? Why would I want to be bitter, or proud, or a mocker? The Lord beckons us to aspire to a higher (actually, highest) way. Aren't these the traits we all ought to pursue, whether or not we believe in the Restoration?<br />It is a trial of faith to see our leaders being evasive or less than honest when put on the spot. But where is our faith focused? Is it on them, or as the Church as an institution? Then prepare to have your faith shattered at some point. But if it's focused on the Lord and His doctrine which these leaders teach, then faith is centered on the Rock. In the end, it's our personal relationship with God driven by our faith in Him and the Son that matters most. Best then focus on overcoming your own sins and weaknesses rather than pointing out others'.<br /><br />Thanks for this summary of life's journey, and your testimony. I found this edifying. And yes, a willingness to sacrifice all for those we love, or even don't love. How I pray for that. I find it hard to come by, but I'm trying.r john jrnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-16949872371406577682021-12-26T12:20:56.146-07:002021-12-26T12:20:56.146-07:00As stated at the outset, the article was prepared ...As stated at the outset, the article was prepared for the Encyclopedia of Mormonism. That article is the source for the excerpt you asked about.David B. Goateshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01978666830682045128noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-30706972698890366962021-12-25T08:27:01.800-07:002021-12-25T08:27:01.800-07:00What is the exact citation for the"reassembli...What is the exact citation for the"reassembling the fragments"<br />quote?mackayamhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00120171930496402597noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-73171056490677011172021-11-30T15:35:26.535-07:002021-11-30T15:35:26.535-07:00Thannk you for thisThannk you for thisMeredith Ohttps://www.meredithowens.com/noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-54448834791621837442021-09-22T11:40:33.370-06:002021-09-22T11:40:33.370-06:00John, as always, thanks for your thoughtful commen...John, as always, thanks for your thoughtful comments. I often glaze across the mountain tops of topics, but you have filled in all the gaps for us. David B. Goateshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01978666830682045128noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7370511552390871439.post-27405067106678358342021-09-19T22:35:14.177-06:002021-09-19T22:35:14.177-06:00I may have come off as being insensitive to your d...I may have come off as being insensitive to your daughter's pain. That wasn't my intent. I hope whatever therapy and/or legal steps she is taking will bring the healing she needs.r john jrnoreply@blogger.com