Thoughts and stories, by Pal

Two delightful articles pertinent to Martin Luther King Day, which we celebrate as a national holiday are below.  We have many good friends of all races, and religions, and were taught to love all men.   My great grandfather, Haden Wells Church, an original pioneer of St. George brought a black friend back from his mission in Tennessee in the 1870's, and he lived in St. George a few years, and then went back to Tennessee when Haden went back on another mission.  They were lifelong friends!   Ruby Bridges’ Ordinary Answer to an Extraordinary Problem By Michael K. Erickson  · January 17, 2016, in Meridian Magazine Norman Rockwell had extraordinary talent for painting the ordinary moments of American life. Many of his best-loved works are currently on display at the  BYU Museum of Art through February 13th . As the exhibit’s title “American Chronicles” suggests, the collection is a window into America’s past, even more s...

Who would have thought that Dr. Seuss would teach such Gospel lessons!?!  This is a great article from LDS Living. If Dr. Seuss Taught Sunday School JANNALEE ROSNER & DANIELLE BECKSTROM -  Adults and children alike are familiar with the humorous, inventive words of Dr. Seuss, but beneath the humor there are a surprising number of gospel truths to be found. Original artwork by  Greg Williams  of The Tampa Tribune under  CCBYSA licensing . His words make us giggle, his words make us cry. There's no place for doubt, he's one terrific guy. But whether you're a Who or a Jiggle Micpuff, his words mean much more than the regular stuff. They help us to see worlds out way far into space, and remind us of principles from a heavenly place. So, we hope you enjoy and we hope you will grow from that famous Dr. Seuss who says so much more than you know. He would use the Grinch to teach about the value of heavenly treasures Image retrieved from...

Dear folks,  It has been really touching today to read about the life and mission of Nelson Mandela in South Africa.  It brings quite a few thoughts to my mind.  These are from the histories of Pratt and Ruth Miles book. My great-great grandfather, on my mother's side, John Lowe Butler, whose journal is included in our book of my ancestors, was married in Tennessee in 1831, and given 2 slaves as a wedding present from his wife's family.  They became converted to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and were baptized in 1835.  This is in their history: (On Page 119)      "At the wedding celebration held in their home, parents of bride Caroline Skeen, surprised her with three special gifts.  According to family tradition, Jesse and Keziah Skeen, gave  her an expensive sidesaddle so she could ride horseback in style, like a Southern woman of breeding should.  They also presented to her and new son-in-law John Lowe But...