Here are my thoughts on Part 5 (pp.347-402)
It is important to know all of this history, but boy I hate reading it! Yuck! The evil that creeps in and the maltreatment of so many for so long. It amazed me that the people stayed there as long as they did.
I do love the Lord's hand in preserving Joseph so many times. Like when some officers came to take him to be killed until they meet him, and instead protect him on his way home from his mother's house and say that they felt differently about him than they'd ever felt in their lives. (p.363). Within this same story, I love the pioneer's grit - how many of them told the officers to just kill them quickly so they could be happy and how disconcerting it was to those trying to stop this great work!
I am so grateful that Hyrum's statement on the treatments in Missouri was included here. Great information. But, I also loved his little glips he puts in about the "great leaders" - especially the one about the military leader who seemed so important, yet it took him a whole week to discover that religious leaders who have no ties to military whatsoever should not be court martialed :) I'd say there was a bit of tongue-in-cheek in this comment! And several others that you couldn't help but grin about. Of course I cannot find it now, but it was good. I also love hearing the story of Joseph Smith standing up in chains and telling the guards to be silent and how regal he was even in chains. The power of the Lord's annointed is strong no matter how immobile his body is.
Oh, those good people of Quincy, Illinois - there is a sure place in heaven for these earthly saviors to our Missouri saints. I love them all so much for all they did for the saints.
I also love the story of Joseph & Hyrum coming home. The vision of Lucy the night before and then their arrival home. What a wonderful day that must have been for so many.
I love the inclusion of the father's blessings by Joseph Smith Sr to each child. And, it breaks my heart to read the rest of the book as Lucy was truly broken-hearted after her sweet husband died. And, then to have to endure so many more deaths within 4 years of that. This strong woman survived and remained strong in so many ways, but her heart was broken and her strength gone out in many others.
Don't think I am a complete idiot, but I don't think I ever knew what the pretense was for taking Joseph to Carthage Jail - and it was because they stopped a press for publishing mean things about the Mormons and they went about it the same as many other presses had been shut down in Illinois previously, but somehow - they were able to take Joseph to jail on these charges and get him in a place where he could be murdered by a mob driven by insane hatred. Unbelievable.
And, that is all I have to say about this wonderful book. I loved it. I devoured it. And I truly fell in love with sweet Lucy Mack Smith. Does anyone remember that Grandma Burton acted as Lucy, I think in the Mansion Home while on their mission in Nauvoo??? I truly enjoyed reading it from this perspective, especially during these last few weeks as Grandma has been suffering so much and our prayers have been in her behalf - it has helped me see part of Grandma in a different light as well. Another strong, faithful, loving woman who has endured much and taught even more!!! Sorry, I couldn't resist because my mind has gone back to this so many times as I have read this. I am sure that this book was one of the main places she got her information and stories to share with others that came into the home!
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Part 4: The Gathering in Ohio
Here are my thoughts on Part 4 (pp. 257-346)
The first chapter in this section is about Mother Smith leading a group of families from Fayette to Kirtland. It is interesting how bold she is. I am so pleased with her not hiding her religion EVER! And how it constantly pays off for her - such as the ice breaking up long enough to get their boat and one other through before closing again, and finding a place to stay when it was wet and cold and completing missionary work the whole way. I also am in awe at how she handles others - a natural leader. But, I makes me wonder what she would have said about me if I had been on the boat as she was not too fond of how other parents cared for their children. Were all of them not able to control their children?? That was amazing to me! And, how few provided for themselves in food for the trip - duh! I guess they were all still learning.
I really enjoyed hearing about Lucy going on a mission to teach her family members the gospel. I don't know why it didn't occur to me earlier that she and her husband would both want to share the gospel with their family members.
I don't know if I will ever get over the sheer evil-ness that surrounds the mobbers at the John Johnson farm and the subsequent death of their little boy that was already sick! And, the labor of love of those around them who helped out Joseph as soon as they possibly could. I think it was in the chapter notes at the end about how the neighbors responded as well and were also treated badly in order to be sure that they'd have a clear shot at Joseph - oh my goodness! TOO well thought out, I'm afraid!
Lucy is a spunky little thing. Love that she took over building the schoolhouse when the work just wasn't getting done! Ha ha!
More miraculous healings - Sophronia healed by the priesthood. Then, Lucy's eyesight is gone for a few days and when she is healed, she never needs glasses again. Can anyone have more faith than this incredible woman?
Chapter 44 talks about a vision that Joseph Smith has while he is on a journey East and it is so terrible he keeps stopping it but it keeps coming back. The vision is of the canker within the church at Kirtland and all the bitter enemies that will come because of it. Too too true!
Now, it is Joseph Smith, Sr.'s turn to visit and teach his family the gospel. I love how they all accept it, except that stubborn brother of his. So sad that his mother was not baptized prior to her death because of that son. But, her heart was right and the work was done for her quickly, I am sure - although not mentioned in the book that I read.
That's all for this section. Hope I'm not boring you all to pieces.
The first chapter in this section is about Mother Smith leading a group of families from Fayette to Kirtland. It is interesting how bold she is. I am so pleased with her not hiding her religion EVER! And how it constantly pays off for her - such as the ice breaking up long enough to get their boat and one other through before closing again, and finding a place to stay when it was wet and cold and completing missionary work the whole way. I also am in awe at how she handles others - a natural leader. But, I makes me wonder what she would have said about me if I had been on the boat as she was not too fond of how other parents cared for their children. Were all of them not able to control their children?? That was amazing to me! And, how few provided for themselves in food for the trip - duh! I guess they were all still learning.
I really enjoyed hearing about Lucy going on a mission to teach her family members the gospel. I don't know why it didn't occur to me earlier that she and her husband would both want to share the gospel with their family members.
I don't know if I will ever get over the sheer evil-ness that surrounds the mobbers at the John Johnson farm and the subsequent death of their little boy that was already sick! And, the labor of love of those around them who helped out Joseph as soon as they possibly could. I think it was in the chapter notes at the end about how the neighbors responded as well and were also treated badly in order to be sure that they'd have a clear shot at Joseph - oh my goodness! TOO well thought out, I'm afraid!
Lucy is a spunky little thing. Love that she took over building the schoolhouse when the work just wasn't getting done! Ha ha!
More miraculous healings - Sophronia healed by the priesthood. Then, Lucy's eyesight is gone for a few days and when she is healed, she never needs glasses again. Can anyone have more faith than this incredible woman?
Chapter 44 talks about a vision that Joseph Smith has while he is on a journey East and it is so terrible he keeps stopping it but it keeps coming back. The vision is of the canker within the church at Kirtland and all the bitter enemies that will come because of it. Too too true!
Now, it is Joseph Smith, Sr.'s turn to visit and teach his family the gospel. I love how they all accept it, except that stubborn brother of his. So sad that his mother was not baptized prior to her death because of that son. But, her heart was right and the work was done for her quickly, I am sure - although not mentioned in the book that I read.
That's all for this section. Hope I'm not boring you all to pieces.
Part 3: New York/Pennsylvania: Beginnings of the Restoration
Pages 81-256
These are some of my favorite parts and thoughts from this section:
Of course, the story of Joseph's visions are beautiful and I love reading them. BUT one thing that I did not know was written in the end of chapter notes #12 (p. 106) that says that Reverend Mr. Lane (a Methodist) was preaching about what church to join and quoted James 1:5. Isn't it interesting how the Lord will help guide our thoughts through others?
My heart was so touched by Alvin and his love and wisdom. He truly lived the role of a big brother well. I love the sweet little things he said to each brother and sisters, his care for his parents, and what a strength he gave to Joseph in going forward with the Book of Mormon!
P. 140 mentions how an opportunity came up for Joseph to help take up a wall of a well and would pay him - thus helping him pay to get a cabinet made to hold the plates - I love how the Lord works!
I also love how the family rallies together so much - the story of Hyrum bringing the chest to Joseph - how Carlos touched his shoulder and he jumped up, dumped out the chest and ran to take it to Joseph immediately - they didn't just support him, but responded so rapidly and obediently. Then, I love the wife's response of covering up the strange actions - Oh, that's just like him to fly off to do something when he remembers it :) (p.144)
Loved her description of the breastplate - she paints a beautiful picture.
Again, the whole family was devastated when Joseph lost his ability to translate for a while. I was especially impressed with the counsel of Joseph Smith, Sr. He told Joseph that if he messed up he could lose this important responsibility for good - interesting to me how a parent who was not steeped in the gospel but was learning right along with his son still could receive inspiration and give wise counsel to his son and help him through these difficult times.
How David Whitmer is brought into the picture is another fascinating story - First of all that Joseph is commanded to write a letter to this person he had never seen. And then, the work that David Whitmer was able to accomplish in harvesting his wheat in half the time and how the plaster of paris was sowed by angels - this is all in Chapter 29 and is another testimony to the work!
I love Joseph Smith's good nature. P. 204 is a good illustration of this as he is warned that a mob would try to thwart his work in publishing the Book of Mormon. Joseph tells his mother not to worry that that he would not be harmed that day. Then, passed these "mobbers" that were all sitting on the fence and greeted each one happily, they were all struck with such confusion that they did not harm him. "Well, Mother, the Lord has been on my side today; the devil has not overpowered me in any of my proceedings. Did I not tell you that I should be delivered from the hands of my enemies? They thought they were going to perform great feats; they have done wonders to prevent me from getting the book printed; they mustered themselves together, and got upon the fence, made me a low bow, and went home, and I'll warrant you they wish they had stayed there in the first place. Mother, there is a God in heaven, and I know it."
Another beautiful display of the Lord helping to protect Joseph came on pp. 233-234. Esquire Reed was not going to take the case of Joseph Smith about some trouble in Colesville. But soon after he decided he wouldn't take the case he heard someone say "You must go, and deliver the Lord's Annointed!" He thought it was the person next to him and asked him what he meant and the man sternly denied saying so, and Esquire Reed said that he believed him because of the peculiar feeling he had as he heard the words - something he'd never felt before. "Whilst I was engaged in the case, these emotions increased, and when I came to speak upon it, I was inspired with an eloquence which was altogether new to me, and which was overpowering and irrestible. I succeeded, as I expected, in obtaining the prisoner's discharge." He then was able to help in Joseph Smith's escape by taking the mobbers into another room for a drink. He remained a faithful friend to Joseph from that time forward, but never attached himself to the church. I LOVE THIS STORY!
Finally, I loved reading the story of Samuel's mission. He met with a Mr. Green, who was a preacher, and asked him to take down names of those who may be interested (after being turned down several times) and he'd return in a couple of weeks. Well, nobody seemed interested when he returned, but he got a chance to speak with Mrs. Green who had read the book & liked it, but her husband did not want to buy it. He was impressed to leave the book with her anyway. She had Samuel pray for her and then explained to her the most profitable manner of reading the book - to ask of God for a testimony of its truthfulness. This book was finally also read by Mr. Green and they were both baptized. This book was then given to Phineas Young (Mrs. Green's borther), then to Brigham Young, and then to Mrs. Murray (another sister) who is the mother of Heber C. Kimball's wife. Brigham also took this book to his brother Joseph Young who was in Canada at the time and persuaded him to cease preaching Methodism and embrace the truth. WOW!! What a history! And this is even more poignant now that I am married to one of Brigham Young's great-great-great-grandson's and my children are also his "grandchildren" - what would have become of me without Samuel being inspired to leave the book and his testimony??? So, this was family history for me as well.
And, that wraps up this section. You probably could have read all the pages faster than this post - so sorry! I LOVE THE BOOK!
Now, this is where someone could add their comments whenever they get a chance to read it themselves :)
These are some of my favorite parts and thoughts from this section:
Of course, the story of Joseph's visions are beautiful and I love reading them. BUT one thing that I did not know was written in the end of chapter notes #12 (p. 106) that says that Reverend Mr. Lane (a Methodist) was preaching about what church to join and quoted James 1:5. Isn't it interesting how the Lord will help guide our thoughts through others?
My heart was so touched by Alvin and his love and wisdom. He truly lived the role of a big brother well. I love the sweet little things he said to each brother and sisters, his care for his parents, and what a strength he gave to Joseph in going forward with the Book of Mormon!
P. 140 mentions how an opportunity came up for Joseph to help take up a wall of a well and would pay him - thus helping him pay to get a cabinet made to hold the plates - I love how the Lord works!
I also love how the family rallies together so much - the story of Hyrum bringing the chest to Joseph - how Carlos touched his shoulder and he jumped up, dumped out the chest and ran to take it to Joseph immediately - they didn't just support him, but responded so rapidly and obediently. Then, I love the wife's response of covering up the strange actions - Oh, that's just like him to fly off to do something when he remembers it :) (p.144)
Loved her description of the breastplate - she paints a beautiful picture.
Again, the whole family was devastated when Joseph lost his ability to translate for a while. I was especially impressed with the counsel of Joseph Smith, Sr. He told Joseph that if he messed up he could lose this important responsibility for good - interesting to me how a parent who was not steeped in the gospel but was learning right along with his son still could receive inspiration and give wise counsel to his son and help him through these difficult times.
How David Whitmer is brought into the picture is another fascinating story - First of all that Joseph is commanded to write a letter to this person he had never seen. And then, the work that David Whitmer was able to accomplish in harvesting his wheat in half the time and how the plaster of paris was sowed by angels - this is all in Chapter 29 and is another testimony to the work!
I love Joseph Smith's good nature. P. 204 is a good illustration of this as he is warned that a mob would try to thwart his work in publishing the Book of Mormon. Joseph tells his mother not to worry that that he would not be harmed that day. Then, passed these "mobbers" that were all sitting on the fence and greeted each one happily, they were all struck with such confusion that they did not harm him. "Well, Mother, the Lord has been on my side today; the devil has not overpowered me in any of my proceedings. Did I not tell you that I should be delivered from the hands of my enemies? They thought they were going to perform great feats; they have done wonders to prevent me from getting the book printed; they mustered themselves together, and got upon the fence, made me a low bow, and went home, and I'll warrant you they wish they had stayed there in the first place. Mother, there is a God in heaven, and I know it."
Another beautiful display of the Lord helping to protect Joseph came on pp. 233-234. Esquire Reed was not going to take the case of Joseph Smith about some trouble in Colesville. But soon after he decided he wouldn't take the case he heard someone say "You must go, and deliver the Lord's Annointed!" He thought it was the person next to him and asked him what he meant and the man sternly denied saying so, and Esquire Reed said that he believed him because of the peculiar feeling he had as he heard the words - something he'd never felt before. "Whilst I was engaged in the case, these emotions increased, and when I came to speak upon it, I was inspired with an eloquence which was altogether new to me, and which was overpowering and irrestible. I succeeded, as I expected, in obtaining the prisoner's discharge." He then was able to help in Joseph Smith's escape by taking the mobbers into another room for a drink. He remained a faithful friend to Joseph from that time forward, but never attached himself to the church. I LOVE THIS STORY!
Finally, I loved reading the story of Samuel's mission. He met with a Mr. Green, who was a preacher, and asked him to take down names of those who may be interested (after being turned down several times) and he'd return in a couple of weeks. Well, nobody seemed interested when he returned, but he got a chance to speak with Mrs. Green who had read the book & liked it, but her husband did not want to buy it. He was impressed to leave the book with her anyway. She had Samuel pray for her and then explained to her the most profitable manner of reading the book - to ask of God for a testimony of its truthfulness. This book was finally also read by Mr. Green and they were both baptized. This book was then given to Phineas Young (Mrs. Green's borther), then to Brigham Young, and then to Mrs. Murray (another sister) who is the mother of Heber C. Kimball's wife. Brigham also took this book to his brother Joseph Young who was in Canada at the time and persuaded him to cease preaching Methodism and embrace the truth. WOW!! What a history! And this is even more poignant now that I am married to one of Brigham Young's great-great-great-grandson's and my children are also his "grandchildren" - what would have become of me without Samuel being inspired to leave the book and his testimony??? So, this was family history for me as well.
And, that wraps up this section. You probably could have read all the pages faster than this post - so sorry! I LOVE THE BOOK!
Now, this is where someone could add their comments whenever they get a chance to read it themselves :)
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Joseph Smith Book - 1st 75 pages or so (new book)
So, I am reading slowly, but maybe you all are too. Here's my question and we can discuss further, if interested . . .
What are your thoughts, impressions, etc. about Lucy's background of family?
A- Any favorite stories?
B- Anything that strikes you as preparation to Lucy becoming who she is and helping Joseph to become who he is?
TO START OFF, I'll put in my 2-cents worth:
I have read this book before, but somehow totally forgot about this huge history at the beginning and LOVED IT! I think it is interesting that she included it in a history of her son, but it is fascinating to see all they went through.
I found it very interesting how many had financial set-backs after being SO WELL established beforehand. It seems to be for a reason, I'd say.
Interesting also to hear the stories of her 2 sisters who got ill and one was miraculously healed on her deathbed, and how many of their families members had such faith. I also found it interesting that Lucy was such a key help to her sister either Lovina or Lovisa as she was sick - she couldn't have been more than 11 or 12, if I am calculating correctly.
Finally, I enjoyed reading about Joseph Smith, Sr. and his struggles with religion and how adamant his brother was against organized religion and to see that Joseph was actually much more relaxed about this than he was.
What did you think?
(P.S. I hope this is all right to do this way and to be so tardy. I am trying to keep this going, if possible because it could be so much fun! Also, Hilarie Petersen has asked if maybe we want to expand this to be an extended Burton Girls Book Club - she thought it sounded fun and interesting)
What are your thoughts, impressions, etc. about Lucy's background of family?
A- Any favorite stories?
B- Anything that strikes you as preparation to Lucy becoming who she is and helping Joseph to become who he is?
TO START OFF, I'll put in my 2-cents worth:
I have read this book before, but somehow totally forgot about this huge history at the beginning and LOVED IT! I think it is interesting that she included it in a history of her son, but it is fascinating to see all they went through.
I found it very interesting how many had financial set-backs after being SO WELL established beforehand. It seems to be for a reason, I'd say.
Interesting also to hear the stories of her 2 sisters who got ill and one was miraculously healed on her deathbed, and how many of their families members had such faith. I also found it interesting that Lucy was such a key help to her sister either Lovina or Lovisa as she was sick - she couldn't have been more than 11 or 12, if I am calculating correctly.
Finally, I enjoyed reading about Joseph Smith, Sr. and his struggles with religion and how adamant his brother was against organized religion and to see that Joseph was actually much more relaxed about this than he was.
What did you think?
(P.S. I hope this is all right to do this way and to be so tardy. I am trying to keep this going, if possible because it could be so much fun! Also, Hilarie Petersen has asked if maybe we want to expand this to be an extended Burton Girls Book Club - she thought it sounded fun and interesting)
Friday, April 3, 2009
April Book Club Reading
Hello everyone. I am not giving up yet, never you fear! My thought for this month is to try to give little questions along the month to see what you thought of the book to page 100, etc. Since this is an extra long book - maybe it will have to extend into May. I will probably just post things as I get a thought or question and welcome anyone else's thoughts as a new post as well. If you are perplexed, excited, questioning, confused, or have an ah-ha, please post it here and we can discuss it as we read. Let's try it out and see what we think :)
Love you all,
Em
P.S. In case you want to know, we are reading The History of Joseph Smith by his Mother. Sorry it is so long, but it seemed to be the vote. Mom & Dad have a copy here if someone needs one. I'd loan mine, but I am just starting it myself. Happy reading.
Love you all,
Em
P.S. In case you want to know, we are reading The History of Joseph Smith by his Mother. Sorry it is so long, but it seemed to be the vote. Mom & Dad have a copy here if someone needs one. I'd loan mine, but I am just starting it myself. Happy reading.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
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