PREFACE
This book is not primarily-- poetry to be read.
It is a book to enrich your life
With ages-old, proven principles
That bring happiness, avoid troubles and strife.
The principles recommended here
Were selected from hundreds of pages
Of scriptures, experiences of family and friends
And the wisdom of poets and sages.
“Happiness is the object of man’s existence.”(Teachings of J.S.254)*
“Man is that he might have joy.”–(II Nephi 2:25)*
If you live the principles explained ln this book
You’ll experience both happiness and joy.
In every stanza you will find
Concise thoughts for you,
Essential training for your mind,
To bring success and happiness to you.
If you want to accomplish your purpose in life
While you live an enjoyable life too
Make the teachings explained here “your way of life”.
Rewards will come now, and in the next life too!
Re-read these principles often
You’ll enjoy them more each time.
When they become your way of life
They’ll bring happy experiences, time after time.
I've used rhythm and rhyme for brevity,
Emphasis and a cheerful way of expressing
Positive and rewarding opportunities–
Not duties and obligations that are oppressing.
–Ward Hicken
*(Teachings of Joseph Smith)
*(Book of Mormon)
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Christmas Greetings 2010
Christmas Greetings
Ring happy bells on Christmas morn
The day when Jesus Christ was born.
When family, friends and neighbors meet
And each-other with enthusiasm greet:
Of all the seasons of the year,
It’s the one most people cheer!
With Christmas trees and decorations
Carols and festive celebrations.
When heavenly choirs sang songs of joy
To shepherds on hills of Bethlehem
And of the birth of a baby, the Son of God,
Angels told to them.
Lighting the heavens, a bright new star
Guided wise men coming from the east afar,
To worship this baby, born to be:
The Savior of all,–even you and me!
He lived a life of service and love
Worthy of the Son of God above.
He healed the sick, the deaf and the blind,
And those afflicted in body or mind.
He raised the dead-- calmed the wind and the wave--
Walked on the water.-- With few loaves and fishes
He fed five thousand!-- and to all he gave
Instructions for life-- and glory beyond wishes.
As the climax to his life of teaching and service
He gave his life in atonement that we
Could be cleansed from sin and resurrected be,
And return to God for eternity.
So rejoice for His birth this Christmas Day
And live his teachings in every way.
They’ll help you avoid troubles, suffering and strife
Make you many friends,-- live a happy life!!!
–Ward Hicken
*Jesus’ instructions for Happiness: on the Internet @ www.happypoems.blogspot.com
Ring happy bells on Christmas morn
The day when Jesus Christ was born.
When family, friends and neighbors meet
And each-other with enthusiasm greet:
Of all the seasons of the year,
It’s the one most people cheer!
With Christmas trees and decorations
Carols and festive celebrations.
When heavenly choirs sang songs of joy
To shepherds on hills of Bethlehem
And of the birth of a baby, the Son of God,
Angels told to them.
Lighting the heavens, a bright new star
Guided wise men coming from the east afar,
To worship this baby, born to be:
The Savior of all,–even you and me!
He lived a life of service and love
Worthy of the Son of God above.
He healed the sick, the deaf and the blind,
And those afflicted in body or mind.
He raised the dead-- calmed the wind and the wave--
Walked on the water.-- With few loaves and fishes
He fed five thousand!-- and to all he gave
Instructions for life-- and glory beyond wishes.
As the climax to his life of teaching and service
He gave his life in atonement that we
Could be cleansed from sin and resurrected be,
And return to God for eternity.
So rejoice for His birth this Christmas Day
And live his teachings in every way.
They’ll help you avoid troubles, suffering and strife
Make you many friends,-- live a happy life!!!
–Ward Hicken
*Jesus’ instructions for Happiness: on the Internet @ www.happypoems.blogspot.com
Saturday, December 4, 2010
INDEX
1. Happiness
2. A Positive Attitude
3. Cheerfulness
4. Enthusiasm
5. Family
6. Initiative
7. Optimism
8. Courtesy
9. Gratitude
10. The Second Commandment
11. Five Laws of Success
12. Goals and Purposes
13. Forgiveness
14. Tolerance
15. Tolerance 2
16. Work
17. Retirement
18. Obedience
19. Kindness
20. The Happy Ways of Repentance
21. The Benefits of Service
22. The Journey of Life
23. The Abundant Life
24. For a Better World
25. The Damage of Negative Thinking
26. The Ways of God
27. Patience
28. Purposes
29. Meekness Humility
30. The Happy Teachings of Jesus
2. A Positive Attitude
3. Cheerfulness
4. Enthusiasm
5. Family
6. Initiative
7. Optimism
8. Courtesy
9. Gratitude
10. The Second Commandment
11. Five Laws of Success
12. Goals and Purposes
13. Forgiveness
14. Tolerance
15. Tolerance 2
16. Work
17. Retirement
18. Obedience
19. Kindness
20. The Happy Ways of Repentance
21. The Benefits of Service
22. The Journey of Life
23. The Abundant Life
24. For a Better World
25. The Damage of Negative Thinking
26. The Ways of God
27. Patience
28. Purposes
29. Meekness Humility
30. The Happy Teachings of Jesus
Sunday, October 7, 2007
HAPPINESS
HAPPINESS
Thanking God for blessings first thing in the day
Will start each day off in a happy way.
Counting your blessings is the surest way
To bring you happiness every day.
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have others do unto you.
Doing a good turn to someone each day
Will bring happiness to you in a dependable way.
Service to others in church or club
Plus pleasure of their associations
In projects promoting the welfare of all
Fulfills happy expectations.
Association with friends brings happiness,
Good neighbors bring happiness too.
Be a friend to neighbors and associates
And they will bring happiness to you.
A friendly greeting brings happiness
When given with a friendly smile.
Not one that’s routine or perfunctory –
But one “going the second mile”. (Matt 5:41)
Any way you can give happiness to others
Will give happiness to you.
It is somewhat like throwing a boomerang
That turns and comes back to you.
The greatest happiness for most people
Comes in the family to and from
Children, grandparents, brothers and sisters,
Uncles and aunts, but mostly , Dad and Mom.
Give happiness to your loving wife
With love and praise and good deeds for her.
Few thing you do will enrich your life
Like the love in return you’ll receive from her.
–Ward Hicken
Thanking God for blessings first thing in the day
Will start each day off in a happy way.
Counting your blessings is the surest way
To bring you happiness every day.
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have others do unto you.
Doing a good turn to someone each day
Will bring happiness to you in a dependable way.
Service to others in church or club
Plus pleasure of their associations
In projects promoting the welfare of all
Fulfills happy expectations.
Association with friends brings happiness,
Good neighbors bring happiness too.
Be a friend to neighbors and associates
And they will bring happiness to you.
A friendly greeting brings happiness
When given with a friendly smile.
Not one that’s routine or perfunctory –
But one “going the second mile”. (Matt 5:41)
Any way you can give happiness to others
Will give happiness to you.
It is somewhat like throwing a boomerang
That turns and comes back to you.
The greatest happiness for most people
Comes in the family to and from
Children, grandparents, brothers and sisters,
Uncles and aunts, but mostly , Dad and Mom.
Give happiness to your loving wife
With love and praise and good deeds for her.
Few thing you do will enrich your life
Like the love in return you’ll receive from her.
–Ward Hicken
A POSITIVE ATTITUDE
A POSITIVE ATTITUDE
A happy life is in store for you
If you maintain a positive, cheerful attitude,
Give acts of service, cooperate with friends
And accept all favors with gratitude.
When you maintain a positive attitude you choose
To be happy rather than sad.
To concentrate on the good things in life
And avoid or ignore the bad .
There are always positive and negative ways
To think about every question.
You can only concentrate on one at a time.
Choose the positive is my suggestion.
Health , success and happiness
All start with a positive attitude
God’s teachings promote these accomplishments
And enjoyment of them with gratitude.
With a positive attitude you see difficulties
As opportunities in disguise
To increase talents, abilities, improve character,
Add knowledge that will make you wise.
A positive attitude makes no excuses
But looks for solutions instead.
It investigates all possibilities,
Finds one, then goes ahead.
A positive attitude sees good qualities in all people
And sees these people as potential friends.
It looks for opportunities to make others happy
Is considerate and never offends.
Faith and hope and confidence are part
Of a thoughtful, positive attitude
And kindness, compassion, forgiveness and loving
Are desirable qualities you must include.
Some times adversity overtakes you.
It comes through no fault of your own;
But with help from God it could refine you
And prepare you for a heavenly home.
–Ward Hicken
A happy life is in store for you
If you maintain a positive, cheerful attitude,
Give acts of service, cooperate with friends
And accept all favors with gratitude.
When you maintain a positive attitude you choose
To be happy rather than sad.
To concentrate on the good things in life
And avoid or ignore the bad .
There are always positive and negative ways
To think about every question.
You can only concentrate on one at a time.
Choose the positive is my suggestion.
Health , success and happiness
All start with a positive attitude
God’s teachings promote these accomplishments
And enjoyment of them with gratitude.
With a positive attitude you see difficulties
As opportunities in disguise
To increase talents, abilities, improve character,
Add knowledge that will make you wise.
A positive attitude makes no excuses
But looks for solutions instead.
It investigates all possibilities,
Finds one, then goes ahead.
A positive attitude sees good qualities in all people
And sees these people as potential friends.
It looks for opportunities to make others happy
Is considerate and never offends.
Faith and hope and confidence are part
Of a thoughtful, positive attitude
And kindness, compassion, forgiveness and loving
Are desirable qualities you must include.
Some times adversity overtakes you.
It comes through no fault of your own;
But with help from God it could refine you
And prepare you for a heavenly home.
–Ward Hicken
CHEERFULNESS
CHEERFULNESS
What sunshine is to flowers
Smiles are to the human heart.
A cheerful smile makes happy hours
As sunshine makes cloudy gloom depart.
Cheerfulness parts the gloom of darkness.
Cheerfulness keeps daylight in the mind.
Cheerfulness eases trouble and sorrow.
Through cheerfulness you will happiness find.
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.” (Proverbs 17:22)
Shakespeare said, “A light heart lives long.”
Enrich your life with this advice.
Wear a smile. Sing a happy song.
"A man who sings while working,
A child who sings at play.
A mother who sings in the kitchen,
They all have a happy day."(Anonymous)
A cheerful song brings happiness.
A cheerful song and gay
Will make your work much easier
And brighten every day.
Wondrous strength has cheerfulness.
To endurance it gives power.
It does more work in minutes
Than gloom does in an hour.
A smile makes beautiful the plainest face.
A cheerful nature makes friends.
With these and friendly cooperation
A delightful impression the personality sends.
A source of cheerfulness is benevolence,
Kindness and charity.
Try to make these three your way of life
And you will cheerful be.
Cheerful people live longer in years
And after in our regard.
Cheerful people enrich the lives of others
And with happiness themselves reward.
–Ward Hicken
What sunshine is to flowers
Smiles are to the human heart.
A cheerful smile makes happy hours
As sunshine makes cloudy gloom depart.
Cheerfulness parts the gloom of darkness.
Cheerfulness keeps daylight in the mind.
Cheerfulness eases trouble and sorrow.
Through cheerfulness you will happiness find.
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.” (Proverbs 17:22)
Shakespeare said, “A light heart lives long.”
Enrich your life with this advice.
Wear a smile. Sing a happy song.
"A man who sings while working,
A child who sings at play.
A mother who sings in the kitchen,
They all have a happy day."(Anonymous)
A cheerful song brings happiness.
A cheerful song and gay
Will make your work much easier
And brighten every day.
Wondrous strength has cheerfulness.
To endurance it gives power.
It does more work in minutes
Than gloom does in an hour.
A smile makes beautiful the plainest face.
A cheerful nature makes friends.
With these and friendly cooperation
A delightful impression the personality sends.
A source of cheerfulness is benevolence,
Kindness and charity.
Try to make these three your way of life
And you will cheerful be.
Cheerful people live longer in years
And after in our regard.
Cheerful people enrich the lives of others
And with happiness themselves reward.
–Ward Hicken
ENTHUSIASM
ENTHUSIASM
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine” (Proverbs 17:22)
The wisdom of Solomon says.
That’s how enthusiasm is good for the health
And makes healthier happier days.
Billy Sunday said of his preaching
And the way he made people learn,
“I set myself on fire
And the people come to see me burn.”
Cultivate enthusiasm.
It will stimulate all your days
And bring success and happiness,
Give energy and help in many ways.
Enthusiasm is the spark that lights the fire
That enables athletes to run faster and jump higher.
It is what makes the difference between losing and winning.
It changes expressions from frowning to grinning.
Enthusiasm generates energy.
Enthusiasm keeps you young.
Enthusiasm prompts you to action.
It makes motivation flow from your tongue.
Enthusiasm does work in an effortless way.
Enthusiasm, like sunshine, makes brighter your day.
Enthusiasm makes interesting all that you do.
Enthusiasm attracts many friends to you.
Whenever or whatever you read with enthusiasm
Your comprehension and retention are greater.
The things you read become your knowledge
And stay with you much later.
The work you do with enthusiasm
Becomes attractive, gratifying and you get more done.
Enthusiasm makes some of the work you do
Almost as enjoyable as fun.
Enthusiasm brightens dreary days
With a glow from inner sunshine.
It helps you see opportunities
With rewards that are like real sunshine.
Your enthusiasm is contagious.
It makes you irresistible.
For a leader or a salesman
Enthusiasm is indispensable.
Enthusiasm changes apathy to interest.
It determines whether your succeed or fail.
Enthusiasm creates a desire in customers.
Enthusiasm closes a sale.
Enthusiasm is the catalyst
That changes “can’t” to “can do”.
When you give a task to someone,
He or she will smile and say “Thank you”!
When you look for a job put enthusiasm
In your words, your actions, your smile.
And when you work do so with enthusiasm
And “Go the second mile”!
The enthusiasm you show in your actions
Draws attention of employers and praise.
But better than that it frequently brings you
A promotion or gratifying raise.
When you’re drowsy or apathetic
Recall former enthusiasm you have known
And how it changed drudgery to stimulation
And rewarding accomplishments you have known.
Enthusiasm, like a smile, is always acceptable,
Understood in any language or tongue ,
Helpful at any age, but especially--
When you need something to keep you young.
–Ward Hicken
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine” (Proverbs 17:22)
The wisdom of Solomon says.
That’s how enthusiasm is good for the health
And makes healthier happier days.
Billy Sunday said of his preaching
And the way he made people learn,
“I set myself on fire
And the people come to see me burn.”
Cultivate enthusiasm.
It will stimulate all your days
And bring success and happiness,
Give energy and help in many ways.
Enthusiasm is the spark that lights the fire
That enables athletes to run faster and jump higher.
It is what makes the difference between losing and winning.
It changes expressions from frowning to grinning.
Enthusiasm generates energy.
Enthusiasm keeps you young.
Enthusiasm prompts you to action.
It makes motivation flow from your tongue.
Enthusiasm does work in an effortless way.
Enthusiasm, like sunshine, makes brighter your day.
Enthusiasm makes interesting all that you do.
Enthusiasm attracts many friends to you.
Whenever or whatever you read with enthusiasm
Your comprehension and retention are greater.
The things you read become your knowledge
And stay with you much later.
The work you do with enthusiasm
Becomes attractive, gratifying and you get more done.
Enthusiasm makes some of the work you do
Almost as enjoyable as fun.
Enthusiasm brightens dreary days
With a glow from inner sunshine.
It helps you see opportunities
With rewards that are like real sunshine.
Your enthusiasm is contagious.
It makes you irresistible.
For a leader or a salesman
Enthusiasm is indispensable.
Enthusiasm changes apathy to interest.
It determines whether your succeed or fail.
Enthusiasm creates a desire in customers.
Enthusiasm closes a sale.
Enthusiasm is the catalyst
That changes “can’t” to “can do”.
When you give a task to someone,
He or she will smile and say “Thank you”!
When you look for a job put enthusiasm
In your words, your actions, your smile.
And when you work do so with enthusiasm
And “Go the second mile”!
The enthusiasm you show in your actions
Draws attention of employers and praise.
But better than that it frequently brings you
A promotion or gratifying raise.
When you’re drowsy or apathetic
Recall former enthusiasm you have known
And how it changed drudgery to stimulation
And rewarding accomplishments you have known.
Enthusiasm, like a smile, is always acceptable,
Understood in any language or tongue ,
Helpful at any age, but especially--
When you need something to keep you young.
–Ward Hicken
THE FAMILY
THE FAMILY
Source of the second greatest happiness may be
In the home of people you love best:
Your husband, wife and children dear,
Your priceless, loving family.
It’s God’s gift as the training opportunity
For accomplishing your purposes here on earth
With the widest variety of experiences
You can have between death and birth.
Teach your children with love and praise
And appreciation for everything good that they do.
Give love and encouragement every day
And show them they are important to you.
Teach them that they are children of God
Who loves them and will bless them every day.
His teachings will protect and enrich their lives
And guide them on their way.
Teach them to work and the benefits of work,
Obedience, cooperation and loyalty,
Faith in self, self-confidence, self-respect,
Sympathy, kindness and empathy.
Teach them how to give and take,
Show appreciation, friendliness, sincerity,
Give service, show consideration for the feelings of others,
Politeness, good manners and courtesy.
Teach by example ! Show them the way!
Be the kind of a person you want them to be!
Ask God for help. These are His teachings
For you and your family.
Home and family are the haven of happiness.
God intended that is what it should be.
The incomparable variety of experiences it provides
Is training for heaven in eternity.
His teachings in scriptures, in church and in temple
Give restraints to avoid troubles, suffering and strife,
While developing traits of personality and character
That inevitably result in a happy life.
–Ward Hicken
Source of the second greatest happiness may be
In the home of people you love best:
Your husband, wife and children dear,
Your priceless, loving family.
It’s God’s gift as the training opportunity
For accomplishing your purposes here on earth
With the widest variety of experiences
You can have between death and birth.
Teach your children with love and praise
And appreciation for everything good that they do.
Give love and encouragement every day
And show them they are important to you.
Teach them that they are children of God
Who loves them and will bless them every day.
His teachings will protect and enrich their lives
And guide them on their way.
Teach them to work and the benefits of work,
Obedience, cooperation and loyalty,
Faith in self, self-confidence, self-respect,
Sympathy, kindness and empathy.
Teach them how to give and take,
Show appreciation, friendliness, sincerity,
Give service, show consideration for the feelings of others,
Politeness, good manners and courtesy.
Teach by example ! Show them the way!
Be the kind of a person you want them to be!
Ask God for help. These are His teachings
For you and your family.
Home and family are the haven of happiness.
God intended that is what it should be.
The incomparable variety of experiences it provides
Is training for heaven in eternity.
His teachings in scriptures, in church and in temple
Give restraints to avoid troubles, suffering and strife,
While developing traits of personality and character
That inevitably result in a happy life.
–Ward Hicken
INITIATIVE
INITIATIVE
God gave you moral agency
To choose what you’ll do with your life.
Be a creator, not a victim of circumstance,
And gain knowledge and strength from the strife.
Don’t wait to be commanded in all things. (D&C 58:26)*
Be a “self-starter” with a will of your own.
See what needs to be done and do it!
If necessary, do it alone!
God said, “Be engaged in many good causes
And do many things of your own free will
And bring to pass much righteousness
And my purposes for you fulfill.” (D&C 58:27,28)
The correct principles God has given us
Reveal many things we can do
To promote our welfare and that of others
And accomplish His purposes too.
We can learn, teach our children and others,
Give help to neighbors with needs,
Assist in community projects,
Strengthen friendships through kindly deeds.
Take the first step in starting a project.
Be a leader in getting things done.
Show enthusiasm for what is to be accomplished
And cooperation of others will be won.
Don’t wait for others to be friendly;
They are waiting to see what you’ll do.
Say “Hello!” with a friendly smile and handshake
And they’ll respond warmly to you.
“As you sow: so shall your reap”.
The more friends you make: the more friends you’ll keep.
The initiative you show in helping your brothers
Will bring blessings from God and friendship from others.
–Ward Hicken
*(Doctrine and Covenants)
God gave you moral agency
To choose what you’ll do with your life.
Be a creator, not a victim of circumstance,
And gain knowledge and strength from the strife.
Don’t wait to be commanded in all things. (D&C 58:26)*
Be a “self-starter” with a will of your own.
See what needs to be done and do it!
If necessary, do it alone!
God said, “Be engaged in many good causes
And do many things of your own free will
And bring to pass much righteousness
And my purposes for you fulfill.” (D&C 58:27,28)
The correct principles God has given us
Reveal many things we can do
To promote our welfare and that of others
And accomplish His purposes too.
We can learn, teach our children and others,
Give help to neighbors with needs,
Assist in community projects,
Strengthen friendships through kindly deeds.
Take the first step in starting a project.
Be a leader in getting things done.
Show enthusiasm for what is to be accomplished
And cooperation of others will be won.
Don’t wait for others to be friendly;
They are waiting to see what you’ll do.
Say “Hello!” with a friendly smile and handshake
And they’ll respond warmly to you.
“As you sow: so shall your reap”.
The more friends you make: the more friends you’ll keep.
The initiative you show in helping your brothers
Will bring blessings from God and friendship from others.
–Ward Hicken
*(Doctrine and Covenants)
OPTIMISM
OPTIMISM
“The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to man”.–Longfellow
Expect to succeed in projects you start.
Maintain faith and an outlook of hope.
Get good information. Put in well-planned effort.
Add enthusiasm and with problems you’ll cope.
Optimism generates action.
It is a quality all leaders possess.
It inspires confidence, participation, cooperation,
Dispels doubt and nervousness.
Optimism looks on the bright side of life.
It is a happy way to live.
It sees all the good qualities in other people
And their mistakes is quick to forgive.
Optimism starts the day with a smile
And happy expectations.
It sees opportunities instead of difficulties
Achieves success with variations.
Be an optimist if you want to have friends
And look for good qualities in others.
Be cheerful, cooperative and helpful
And be a good friend to others.
An optimist plans for good things to happen
And prevents unexpected surprises
By considering all possibilities
And removing the obstacles he recognizes.
An optimist radiates cheerfulness,
Initiative, ability, ambition,
Friendliness, confidence in others
And brings projects to successful completion.
–Ward Hicken
“The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to man”.–Longfellow
Expect to succeed in projects you start.
Maintain faith and an outlook of hope.
Get good information. Put in well-planned effort.
Add enthusiasm and with problems you’ll cope.
Optimism generates action.
It is a quality all leaders possess.
It inspires confidence, participation, cooperation,
Dispels doubt and nervousness.
Optimism looks on the bright side of life.
It is a happy way to live.
It sees all the good qualities in other people
And their mistakes is quick to forgive.
Optimism starts the day with a smile
And happy expectations.
It sees opportunities instead of difficulties
Achieves success with variations.
Be an optimist if you want to have friends
And look for good qualities in others.
Be cheerful, cooperative and helpful
And be a good friend to others.
An optimist plans for good things to happen
And prevents unexpected surprises
By considering all possibilities
And removing the obstacles he recognizes.
An optimist radiates cheerfulness,
Initiative, ability, ambition,
Friendliness, confidence in others
And brings projects to successful completion.
–Ward Hicken
COURTESY
COURTESY
Courtesy and patience on the highway
Would avoid many accidents every day.
Courtesy is the refined and gracious way
To be considerate of others in every way.
Courtesy is also the “gift-wrapped” way
Of showing kindness to others every day.
Courtesy always shows respect for others.
Courtesy is a quality you admire in others.
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have others do unto you.
Courtesy improves personality
As seasoning improves food quality.
Courtesy is the seasoning for personality.
Personality is the seasoning for character.
Courtesy, good personality and character blends
To give a charming quality admired by friends.
This quality practiced in all of your actions
Will bring you happiness and satisfactions.
–Ward Hicken
Courtesy and patience on the highway
Would avoid many accidents every day.
Courtesy is the refined and gracious way
To be considerate of others in every way.
Courtesy is also the “gift-wrapped” way
Of showing kindness to others every day.
Courtesy always shows respect for others.
Courtesy is a quality you admire in others.
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have others do unto you.
Courtesy improves personality
As seasoning improves food quality.
Courtesy is the seasoning for personality.
Personality is the seasoning for character.
Courtesy, good personality and character blends
To give a charming quality admired by friends.
This quality practiced in all of your actions
Will bring you happiness and satisfactions.
–Ward Hicken
GRATITUDE
GRATITUDE
“Gratitude” said Cicero many years ago
“Is the mother of all virtues.”–A truth we all should know!
It will motivate us to keep more of God’s commandments
And thus help us achieve more accomplishments.
Failure to acknowledge His hand in all things
Offends God and upon us His kindled wrath brings. (D&C 59:21)
But God said if we receive all things with thankfulness
We’ll be glorious and given blessedness. (D&C 78:19)
Thanks-giving thoughts for all things we enjoy
Attract creative and imaginative thoughts to employ.
Heart-felt gratitude, enthusiasm, appreciation we express
Combine to bring ideas, opportunities and happiness.
Gratitude is an indication of good manners you possess,
An impression of your refinement and worthiness.
Gratitude is part of a gracious behavior
Which people respect, admire and honor.
We are taught to do a good turn every day.
We should receive each good turn in a thankful way.
Sincere thanks and appreciation
Will be the giver’s best compensation.
The sincere thanks and appreciation you express
Compliment the giver’s unselfishness.
It makes him feel good as a benevolent donor
And one deserving respect and honor.
God knows all our requirements and needs,
Qualities we develop through generous deeds,
Instructions for accomplishing our purpose on earth,
And gratitude is one that determines our worth.
The more you thank God your blessings for
The more blessings you’ll have to be thankful for.
--Ward Hicken
“Gratitude” said Cicero many years ago
“Is the mother of all virtues.”–A truth we all should know!
It will motivate us to keep more of God’s commandments
And thus help us achieve more accomplishments.
Failure to acknowledge His hand in all things
Offends God and upon us His kindled wrath brings. (D&C 59:21)
But God said if we receive all things with thankfulness
We’ll be glorious and given blessedness. (D&C 78:19)
Thanks-giving thoughts for all things we enjoy
Attract creative and imaginative thoughts to employ.
Heart-felt gratitude, enthusiasm, appreciation we express
Combine to bring ideas, opportunities and happiness.
Gratitude is an indication of good manners you possess,
An impression of your refinement and worthiness.
Gratitude is part of a gracious behavior
Which people respect, admire and honor.
We are taught to do a good turn every day.
We should receive each good turn in a thankful way.
Sincere thanks and appreciation
Will be the giver’s best compensation.
The sincere thanks and appreciation you express
Compliment the giver’s unselfishness.
It makes him feel good as a benevolent donor
And one deserving respect and honor.
God knows all our requirements and needs,
Qualities we develop through generous deeds,
Instructions for accomplishing our purpose on earth,
And gratitude is one that determines our worth.
The more you thank God your blessings for
The more blessings you’ll have to be thankful for.
--Ward Hicken
THE SECOND COMMANDMENT
THE SECOND COMMANDMENT
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have other do unto you.
Make your world the kind you would like to see
By being the friend you’d like others to be
Fault-finding and criticism cause unhappiness.
Like all negative thoughts they will cause you to fail.
They are handicaps resulting from selfishness
And for your welfare they are of no avail.
Be tolerant of the faults and weaknesses of others
And you will begin to enjoy them like brothers.
Forgive all offenses and you will find–
Better health, contentment and peace of mind.
Tolerance and patience show friendliness
And like service to others bring happiness.
Your kindness, compassion, forgiveness and love
Will bring blessings to you from heaven above.
As you sow: so shall you reap.
The more love you give: the more love you keep.
Put friendship and love into favors you do
And friendship and love will return to you..
For these reasons Jesus said, “Love your neighbor.”
And when he needs help give him your labor.
In loving God’s children you are loving Him
And He’ll bless you with enthusiasm, vigor and vim.
–Ward Hicken
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have other do unto you.
Make your world the kind you would like to see
By being the friend you’d like others to be
Fault-finding and criticism cause unhappiness.
Like all negative thoughts they will cause you to fail.
They are handicaps resulting from selfishness
And for your welfare they are of no avail.
Be tolerant of the faults and weaknesses of others
And you will begin to enjoy them like brothers.
Forgive all offenses and you will find–
Better health, contentment and peace of mind.
Tolerance and patience show friendliness
And like service to others bring happiness.
Your kindness, compassion, forgiveness and love
Will bring blessings to you from heaven above.
As you sow: so shall you reap.
The more love you give: the more love you keep.
Put friendship and love into favors you do
And friendship and love will return to you..
For these reasons Jesus said, “Love your neighbor.”
And when he needs help give him your labor.
In loving God’s children you are loving Him
And He’ll bless you with enthusiasm, vigor and vim.
–Ward Hicken
FIVE LAWS FOR SUCCESS
FIVE LAWS FOR SUCCESS
When you do more than is expected of you
Or in other ways “go the second mile” (Matthew 5:41)
You develop talents and abilities
And win from others an approving smile.
The “second mile” is your own idea.
Imagination, resourcefulness, creativity you can use.
If you give your services a “gift-wrap”
The benefits are so many you will not lose!
"Don’t wait to be commanded in all things” (D&C 58:26)
Be a “self-starter” with a will of your own.
See what needs to be done and do it:
If necessary,,do it alone.
God said, “Be engaged in many good causes
And do many things of your own free will
And bring to pass much righteousness
And my purposes for you fulfil.” (D&C 58:27)
The greatest reward for the work you do
Is not the wages that are paid to you. (John Ruskin)
It’s the improved personality and character
The experience can develop in you.
“It is impossible for a man to be saved in ignorance”. (D&C131:6)
Was a statement made by God.
"Seek knowledge out of the best books” (D&C 88:118)
From wise men, at home and abroad.
“If a person, by his diligence,
Gains more intelligence than another,
In the next life he’ll have more advantage
Than will have his less diligent brother.” (D&C 131:19)
Our purpose in coming to this life
Is to become all that we can be,
To develop talents and abilities that enable us
To enjoy all the creations of God that we can see.
So heed the laws of cause and effect:
"As you sow, so shall you reap.” (Galatians 6:7)
“Sow sparingly - and sparingly also you shall reap.
Sow bountifully – and bountifully also you shall reap”. (II Corinthians 9:6)
–Ward Hicken
When you do more than is expected of you
Or in other ways “go the second mile” (Matthew 5:41)
You develop talents and abilities
And win from others an approving smile.
The “second mile” is your own idea.
Imagination, resourcefulness, creativity you can use.
If you give your services a “gift-wrap”
The benefits are so many you will not lose!
"Don’t wait to be commanded in all things” (D&C 58:26)
Be a “self-starter” with a will of your own.
See what needs to be done and do it:
If necessary,,do it alone.
God said, “Be engaged in many good causes
And do many things of your own free will
And bring to pass much righteousness
And my purposes for you fulfil.” (D&C 58:27)
The greatest reward for the work you do
Is not the wages that are paid to you. (John Ruskin)
It’s the improved personality and character
The experience can develop in you.
“It is impossible for a man to be saved in ignorance”. (D&C131:6)
Was a statement made by God.
"Seek knowledge out of the best books” (D&C 88:118)
From wise men, at home and abroad.
“If a person, by his diligence,
Gains more intelligence than another,
In the next life he’ll have more advantage
Than will have his less diligent brother.” (D&C 131:19)
Our purpose in coming to this life
Is to become all that we can be,
To develop talents and abilities that enable us
To enjoy all the creations of God that we can see.
So heed the laws of cause and effect:
"As you sow, so shall you reap.” (Galatians 6:7)
“Sow sparingly - and sparingly also you shall reap.
Sow bountifully – and bountifully also you shall reap”. (II Corinthians 9:6)
–Ward Hicken
GOALS AND PURPOSES
GOALS AND PURPOSES
Desires, hopes, aspirations, goals,
Life purposes, something to do,
Are things that can help you make your life
More enjoyable for you.
Goals are incentives and stepping stones
To achieve the potential of our creation.
They are well defined objectives
That give us motivation.
A goal avoids boredom, depression, discouragement.
A goal gives you something important to do.
A goal gives persistence, perseverance, endurance
An incentive to “see it through”.
A goal can help you: “ Do something !” “ Be someone!”
A goal can help you make friends.
A goal helps you concentrate your efforts
To achieve success from loose ends.
Write out your goal in clearly defined terms.
Make a simple, feasible plan that you’ll need.
Keep a picture in mind: “You achieving your goal”.
That picture will help you succeed.
A purpose in life gives you vigor and vim.
It’s God’s way to help you return to Him.
He has given instructions for all that you do
With blessings and benefits without end for you.
Goals are parts of your purpose in life
By taking one thing at a time
And developing it in a manner
That makes it an asset prime.
Your purpose in life is to become all that you can be
In personality, character, spirit and mind
With talents, abilities, skills of the body
And speech and manners refined.
–Ward Hicken
Desires, hopes, aspirations, goals,
Life purposes, something to do,
Are things that can help you make your life
More enjoyable for you.
Goals are incentives and stepping stones
To achieve the potential of our creation.
They are well defined objectives
That give us motivation.
A goal avoids boredom, depression, discouragement.
A goal gives you something important to do.
A goal gives persistence, perseverance, endurance
An incentive to “see it through”.
A goal can help you: “ Do something !” “ Be someone!”
A goal can help you make friends.
A goal helps you concentrate your efforts
To achieve success from loose ends.
Write out your goal in clearly defined terms.
Make a simple, feasible plan that you’ll need.
Keep a picture in mind: “You achieving your goal”.
That picture will help you succeed.
A purpose in life gives you vigor and vim.
It’s God’s way to help you return to Him.
He has given instructions for all that you do
With blessings and benefits without end for you.
Goals are parts of your purpose in life
By taking one thing at a time
And developing it in a manner
That makes it an asset prime.
Your purpose in life is to become all that you can be
In personality, character, spirit and mind
With talents, abilities, skills of the body
And speech and manners refined.
–Ward Hicken
FORGIVENESS
FORGIVENESS
(Reworded thoughts of many minds)
“Who from crimes, would pardoned be
In mercy should set others free.”–Shakespeare
Your reactions can cause more damage to you
Than insults, persecution or torture can do.
Reliving the things “that make you mad”
Is continuous suffering that is far worse than bad!
If we are wise, we will soon forgive.
Grudge-bearing is a miserable way to live.
God’s teachings tell you “Forgive and forget”
Don’t relive painful insults or slights.
Replace them with happy memories
Of enjoyable thoughts and sights.
It is cheaper to pardon than to resent
Forgiveness does the cost of anger prevent.
Hatred wastes time both night and day,
When forgiveness could banish it an easy way.
A wise man will make haste in resentment forgiving
And use the time saved for happier living.
Resentment makes one accident-prone
And maybe friendless-- and alone.
“An eye for an eye” is a sure-enough way
To cause you troubles for many a day.
Little minds store revenge and anger
Unaware forgiveness makes way for pleasure.
For the generous, forgiveness is an easier task
Than for one who offends, forgiveness to ask.
Forgiveness is the way of one who is kind.
It always gives him more peace of mind.
Forgiveness is the act of a noble soul
Who forgoes revenge and makes forgiveness his role.
A benevolent person knows how to forgive.
It’s a refined and generous way to live.
It’s a virtue for which we all should strive
If in heaven we ever hope to arrive.
Forgive faults and failings you see in others:
It’s the first step to take to love all men as brothers.
The teachings of God recommend forgiveness.
Resentment is an impassable barrier to happiness.
For forgiveness from God, forgive fellow men.
Forget their offenses: He’ll forgive you then.
Forgive before taking your gift to the altar.
You can then call on God and your faith will not falter.
Pardon, not wrath is God’s better grace:
A virtue to emulate before Him we face.
Forgive and forget for peace of mind
And happiness you will be sure to find.
–Ward Hicken
(Reworded thoughts of many minds)
“Who from crimes, would pardoned be
In mercy should set others free.”–Shakespeare
Your reactions can cause more damage to you
Than insults, persecution or torture can do.
Reliving the things “that make you mad”
Is continuous suffering that is far worse than bad!
If we are wise, we will soon forgive.
Grudge-bearing is a miserable way to live.
God’s teachings tell you “Forgive and forget”
Don’t relive painful insults or slights.
Replace them with happy memories
Of enjoyable thoughts and sights.
It is cheaper to pardon than to resent
Forgiveness does the cost of anger prevent.
Hatred wastes time both night and day,
When forgiveness could banish it an easy way.
A wise man will make haste in resentment forgiving
And use the time saved for happier living.
Resentment makes one accident-prone
And maybe friendless-- and alone.
“An eye for an eye” is a sure-enough way
To cause you troubles for many a day.
Little minds store revenge and anger
Unaware forgiveness makes way for pleasure.
For the generous, forgiveness is an easier task
Than for one who offends, forgiveness to ask.
Forgiveness is the way of one who is kind.
It always gives him more peace of mind.
Forgiveness is the act of a noble soul
Who forgoes revenge and makes forgiveness his role.
A benevolent person knows how to forgive.
It’s a refined and generous way to live.
It’s a virtue for which we all should strive
If in heaven we ever hope to arrive.
Forgive faults and failings you see in others:
It’s the first step to take to love all men as brothers.
The teachings of God recommend forgiveness.
Resentment is an impassable barrier to happiness.
For forgiveness from God, forgive fellow men.
Forget their offenses: He’ll forgive you then.
Forgive before taking your gift to the altar.
You can then call on God and your faith will not falter.
Pardon, not wrath is God’s better grace:
A virtue to emulate before Him we face.
Forgive and forget for peace of mind
And happiness you will be sure to find.
–Ward Hicken
TOLERANCE
TOLERANCE
Don’t expect other people to do things your way.
They’ll not! They have minds of their own.
If you can’t accept others the way that they are--
You’ll be friendless and alone.
What a boring life it would be for us
If all men thought just the same.
It’s more interesting with rebels and heretics,
“Straight arrows”, the wild and the tame.
Don’t expect other people to do things your way.
They’ll not! They have minds of their own.
If you can’t accept others the way that they are--
You’ll be friendless and alone.
What a boring life it would be for us
If all men thought just the same.
It’s more interesting with rebels and heretics,
“Straight arrows”, the wild and the tame.
TOLERANCE 2
TOLERANCE
Tolerance is a virtue that Jesus taught.
Its many benefits should be eagerly sought.
It ignores the incompetent and pitiful
And looks for the positive and beautiful.
Tolerance is the blessed and happy alternative
To the selfish, unhappy, fault-finding way
Of criticizing the actions and performance of others
And every thing that they do and say.
Tolerance contributes to happiness.
Intolerance is an obstacle to happiness.
The practice of tolerance is an act of kindness
And kindness always brings happiness.
Show unto others the tolerance that you
Would like to have others show unto you.
“Let thy bowels be full of charity to all men.......
And let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly, then
Thy confidence shall wax strong in the presence of God.
The Holy Ghost shall be thy companion”, at home and abroad.(D&C 121:45)
If tolerance becomes your habitual way
It will bless your activities every day.
Tolerance is true humility.
It is also true nobility.
–Ward Hicken
Tolerance is a virtue that Jesus taught.
Its many benefits should be eagerly sought.
It ignores the incompetent and pitiful
And looks for the positive and beautiful.
Tolerance is the blessed and happy alternative
To the selfish, unhappy, fault-finding way
Of criticizing the actions and performance of others
And every thing that they do and say.
Tolerance contributes to happiness.
Intolerance is an obstacle to happiness.
The practice of tolerance is an act of kindness
And kindness always brings happiness.
Show unto others the tolerance that you
Would like to have others show unto you.
“Let thy bowels be full of charity to all men.......
And let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly, then
Thy confidence shall wax strong in the presence of God.
The Holy Ghost shall be thy companion”, at home and abroad.(D&C 121:45)
If tolerance becomes your habitual way
It will bless your activities every day.
Tolerance is true humility.
It is also true nobility.
–Ward Hicken
WORK
WORK
I thank God for teachings, laws and commandments,
Words of wisdom, knowledge and health
Proverbs for guidance and happiness,
And work for required wealth.
God decreed that man should work every day
To provide the needs for his life.
Work is a learning experience
Essential for a happy life.
Strenuous work brings restful sleep.
Promotes health and vigor of mind ,
Self confidence, and self respect.
It also leaves worries behind.
Work is a way to relieve anger,
Negative emotions, worry or stress.
A vigorous physical “work-out” relieves
Adrenalin, a barrier to happiness.
It gives you purpose and something to do
That brings confidence and satisfaction,
Knowledge, ability, self-discipline,
Reputation as a person of action.
Work has a variety of experiences for you.
There’s selling, performing, creating and growing,
And teaching and healing, inventing and knowing ,
And innumerable other things to do.
The greatest reward for your work is not
The wages that are paid to you--
It’s the knowledge, personality and character,
The experience can develop in you.
Work is a command of opportunity.
It is the way to become like God.
Through God’s teachings, service, work, family life
We progress with experiences broad.
So make the most of work’s opportunities
To learn and become all that you can be
With imagination, resourcefulness, initiative, cooperation
And friendliness all part of your personality.
–Ward Hicken
I thank God for teachings, laws and commandments,
Words of wisdom, knowledge and health
Proverbs for guidance and happiness,
And work for required wealth.
God decreed that man should work every day
To provide the needs for his life.
Work is a learning experience
Essential for a happy life.
Strenuous work brings restful sleep.
Promotes health and vigor of mind ,
Self confidence, and self respect.
It also leaves worries behind.
Work is a way to relieve anger,
Negative emotions, worry or stress.
A vigorous physical “work-out” relieves
Adrenalin, a barrier to happiness.
It gives you purpose and something to do
That brings confidence and satisfaction,
Knowledge, ability, self-discipline,
Reputation as a person of action.
Work has a variety of experiences for you.
There’s selling, performing, creating and growing,
And teaching and healing, inventing and knowing ,
And innumerable other things to do.
The greatest reward for your work is not
The wages that are paid to you--
It’s the knowledge, personality and character,
The experience can develop in you.
Work is a command of opportunity.
It is the way to become like God.
Through God’s teachings, service, work, family life
We progress with experiences broad.
So make the most of work’s opportunities
To learn and become all that you can be
With imagination, resourcefulness, initiative, cooperation
And friendliness all part of your personality.
–Ward Hicken
RETIREMENT
RETIREMENT
Retirement is not the Utopian dream
Many workers think it is going to be.
Lack of something to do and somewhere to go
Is not freedom: It’s misery!
Many retirees realize too late
The benefits of work they enjoyed before.
The retirement many anticipate
Becomes an intolerable bore.
They miss the social connections,
The discussions of business goals and needs,
All the problems of difficult customers,
Their idiosyncracies and their misdeeds.
Discussions of weather, and politics,
Sports, hunting and fishing, vacations,
Families and friends and acquaintances,
The latest entertainment sensations.
Admittedly all work is not the same,
But most work provides useful things to do
And many social connections
That make life interesting for you.
Work gives you a sense of belonging,
Of being a contributing part of the world.
It gives you “social” security
And keeps you “in touch with” the world.
Work keeps you healthy, young and happy.
It puts off “Alzheimer’s” and depression
Through social connections, something to do,
Physical activity and mental stimulation.
(Summarized from “Reasons Not to Retire”
US News & World Report 6/12/06)
–Ward Hicken
Retirement is not the Utopian dream
Many workers think it is going to be.
Lack of something to do and somewhere to go
Is not freedom: It’s misery!
Many retirees realize too late
The benefits of work they enjoyed before.
The retirement many anticipate
Becomes an intolerable bore.
They miss the social connections,
The discussions of business goals and needs,
All the problems of difficult customers,
Their idiosyncracies and their misdeeds.
Discussions of weather, and politics,
Sports, hunting and fishing, vacations,
Families and friends and acquaintances,
The latest entertainment sensations.
Admittedly all work is not the same,
But most work provides useful things to do
And many social connections
That make life interesting for you.
Work gives you a sense of belonging,
Of being a contributing part of the world.
It gives you “social” security
And keeps you “in touch with” the world.
Work keeps you healthy, young and happy.
It puts off “Alzheimer’s” and depression
Through social connections, something to do,
Physical activity and mental stimulation.
(Summarized from “Reasons Not to Retire”
US News & World Report 6/12/06)
–Ward Hicken
OBEDIENCE
OBEDIENCE
Your life is made easier by habits of obedience
To laws that protect your health and life
And property that brings you happiness
And avoids contentions, troubles and strife.
Doing what you are told to do by others
Is the first step in “going the second mile”
Where you develop personality and character traits
That enrich your life and make your life worthwhile.
Good grades are given for obedience in schools.
In business people are fired for breaking the rules.
Obedience to laws is the positive way
To enjoy association with others every day.
Obedience is the basis of cooperation.
Cooperation is the way to get things done.
Obedient cooperation is a happy experience.
Cooperation is rewarding for everyone.
Obedience to parents and laws retains freedom.
Freedom from inevitable consequences of:
Unwise choices that cause you to fail.
Law breaking habits that send you to jail.
Substance addictions that destroy your health.
Covetousness that brings debt, and wastes your wealth.
Addictions that make you a helpless slave.
Addictions that put you in a premature grave.
If we don’t obey the lessons of history
We’ll repeat the mistakes of history.
By obedience, the knowledge of others we gain
And don’t need to “invent the wheel” again.
When all else fails, “Read the Instructions”!
By doing what they tell you to do
You will get the job done to your satisfaction
With less time and effort and frustration to you.
You may disregard laws of consequences
But those consequences will never disregard you.
Whichever you choose, the good or the bad,
The good or bad consequences will come to you.
–Ward Hicken
Your life is made easier by habits of obedience
To laws that protect your health and life
And property that brings you happiness
And avoids contentions, troubles and strife.
Doing what you are told to do by others
Is the first step in “going the second mile”
Where you develop personality and character traits
That enrich your life and make your life worthwhile.
Good grades are given for obedience in schools.
In business people are fired for breaking the rules.
Obedience to laws is the positive way
To enjoy association with others every day.
Obedience is the basis of cooperation.
Cooperation is the way to get things done.
Obedient cooperation is a happy experience.
Cooperation is rewarding for everyone.
Obedience to parents and laws retains freedom.
Freedom from inevitable consequences of:
Unwise choices that cause you to fail.
Law breaking habits that send you to jail.
Substance addictions that destroy your health.
Covetousness that brings debt, and wastes your wealth.
Addictions that make you a helpless slave.
Addictions that put you in a premature grave.
If we don’t obey the lessons of history
We’ll repeat the mistakes of history.
By obedience, the knowledge of others we gain
And don’t need to “invent the wheel” again.
When all else fails, “Read the Instructions”!
By doing what they tell you to do
You will get the job done to your satisfaction
With less time and effort and frustration to you.
You may disregard laws of consequences
But those consequences will never disregard you.
Whichever you choose, the good or the bad,
The good or bad consequences will come to you.
–Ward Hicken
KINDNESS
KINDNESS
Love for others from kindness springs.
Love from others our kindness brings.
Kindness to others is love for God.
Kindness to others brings love from God.
Kindness to others we will not regret.
Our kindness to others they will not forget.
Acts of kindness in times of sorrow
Are always appreciated today and tomorrow.
Kindness brings sunshine to a cloudy day
It disperses gloom in a magical way.
Kindnesses are never spoken in vain.
In life’s desert of troubles they’re as welcome as rain.
A kind heart is a fountain of love and gladness.
It’s source is God and its result is happiness.
A kind heart and a friendly smile will be
A way to open opportunity’s doors to thee.
In your nightly prayer be able to say
“Thanks, Father, for helping me be kind today.”
–Ward Hicken
Love for others from kindness springs.
Love from others our kindness brings.
Kindness to others is love for God.
Kindness to others brings love from God.
Kindness to others we will not regret.
Our kindness to others they will not forget.
Acts of kindness in times of sorrow
Are always appreciated today and tomorrow.
Kindness brings sunshine to a cloudy day
It disperses gloom in a magical way.
Kindnesses are never spoken in vain.
In life’s desert of troubles they’re as welcome as rain.
A kind heart is a fountain of love and gladness.
It’s source is God and its result is happiness.
A kind heart and a friendly smile will be
A way to open opportunity’s doors to thee.
In your nightly prayer be able to say
“Thanks, Father, for helping me be kind today.”
–Ward Hicken
THE HAPPY WAYS OF REPENTANCE
THE HAPPY WAYS OF REPENTANCE
To many people, the word “repent”
Has a negative connotation;
But repentance, with Jesus’s other teachings,
Can bring happy inspiration.
Repenting “to” instead of “from”
Has faith and hope and motivation,
With progress, accomplishments, potential,
As great as your imagination!
Repentance is a principle of change and growth
To accomplish our purposes on earth
Gain knowledge, faith, experience,
Develop talents and abilities of worth.
The mistakes we make, and learn from,
The adversities we face and survive,
Our efforts to solve problems and difficulties
All help us progress and thrive.
“To become all that we possibly can be”
Is what Jesus meant when he said,
“Be perfect as your Father in Heaven.” (Matthew 5:48)
How can we? – By teachings of Jesus be led!
Repentance is a way to change,
Gain knowledge, skill and “know how”,
A plan to accomplish dreams and ambitions
Through guided instructions – not “somehow?”
God’s teachings all give instruction
With advisors to show us the way,
Seek knowledge out of the best books,
Be teachable, don’t forget to pray.
Repentance is learning from good books,
Words of wisdom and information,
The adventures of men, the problems they solved,
All the wonders of God’s creation.
So examine creations of God and of man
And read all the interesting books that you can.
For through books you can go where others have been
And see through their eyes all the things they have seen.
Faith and repentance are twin blessings from heaven
They start you then help you go on
To rewarding achievements and happiness
When God’s teachings you rely upon.
Repentance replaces sickness with health,
Through good foods, restful sleep, exercise,
Medical help, prayers of faith - and changes
From bad habits to those that are wise.
Substance addiction has always caused
It’s victims – slaves to be.
But AA’s plan, with help from God,
Can set the victims free.
Repentance means change from ruinous habits
That destroy health, waste money, cause pain–
To improvement of mind, personality, character,
That happiness and success you may gain.
Repentance replaces stingy ways--
With a happy way of living.
Making friends and sharing with others
Changing goals from “having” to “giving”.
Negative thoughts blight friendships and happiness;
So replace them and think of ways:
To notice good qualities in others
And commend their efforts with praise.
Lonely, helpless, discouraging feelings
Are relieved when we frequently pray
And give thanks for the many blessings
God has given us every day.
But the best reward of repentance will be:
Christ’s atonement, that-from-sin makes us free.
“Though your sins be as scarlet”, God wants you to know:
If you come unto Jesus “they’ll be cleansed white as snow”. Isaiah 1:18
Thus cleansed, you’ll have place in the “Kingdom of God”,
Exalted, with knowledge and capabilities broad,
And family and friends and heavenly treasure,
And love and happiness and joy beyond measure!
–Ward Hicken
To many people, the word “repent”
Has a negative connotation;
But repentance, with Jesus’s other teachings,
Can bring happy inspiration.
Repenting “to” instead of “from”
Has faith and hope and motivation,
With progress, accomplishments, potential,
As great as your imagination!
Repentance is a principle of change and growth
To accomplish our purposes on earth
Gain knowledge, faith, experience,
Develop talents and abilities of worth.
The mistakes we make, and learn from,
The adversities we face and survive,
Our efforts to solve problems and difficulties
All help us progress and thrive.
“To become all that we possibly can be”
Is what Jesus meant when he said,
“Be perfect as your Father in Heaven.” (Matthew 5:48)
How can we? – By teachings of Jesus be led!
Repentance is a way to change,
Gain knowledge, skill and “know how”,
A plan to accomplish dreams and ambitions
Through guided instructions – not “somehow?”
God’s teachings all give instruction
With advisors to show us the way,
Seek knowledge out of the best books,
Be teachable, don’t forget to pray.
Repentance is learning from good books,
Words of wisdom and information,
The adventures of men, the problems they solved,
All the wonders of God’s creation.
So examine creations of God and of man
And read all the interesting books that you can.
For through books you can go where others have been
And see through their eyes all the things they have seen.
Faith and repentance are twin blessings from heaven
They start you then help you go on
To rewarding achievements and happiness
When God’s teachings you rely upon.
Repentance replaces sickness with health,
Through good foods, restful sleep, exercise,
Medical help, prayers of faith - and changes
From bad habits to those that are wise.
Substance addiction has always caused
It’s victims – slaves to be.
But AA’s plan, with help from God,
Can set the victims free.
Repentance means change from ruinous habits
That destroy health, waste money, cause pain–
To improvement of mind, personality, character,
That happiness and success you may gain.
Repentance replaces stingy ways--
With a happy way of living.
Making friends and sharing with others
Changing goals from “having” to “giving”.
Negative thoughts blight friendships and happiness;
So replace them and think of ways:
To notice good qualities in others
And commend their efforts with praise.
Lonely, helpless, discouraging feelings
Are relieved when we frequently pray
And give thanks for the many blessings
God has given us every day.
But the best reward of repentance will be:
Christ’s atonement, that-from-sin makes us free.
“Though your sins be as scarlet”, God wants you to know:
If you come unto Jesus “they’ll be cleansed white as snow”. Isaiah 1:18
Thus cleansed, you’ll have place in the “Kingdom of God”,
Exalted, with knowledge and capabilities broad,
And family and friends and heavenly treasure,
And love and happiness and joy beyond measure!
–Ward Hicken
THE BENEFITS OF SERVICE
THE BENEFITS OF SERVICE
The benefits of service by far exceed
The cost to you of each kindly deed.
From service comes talents and ability,
Competence, initiative, generosity,
Knowledge, experience, self-confidence,
Wisdom and responsibility.
Teachers learn more than students do
And leaders learn more than followers too.
Service to others expands your soul
And raises your sights to a higher goal.
When you help the sick and the handicapped
You feel kindness and sympathy,
Compassion, patience, tolerance ,
Consideration and empathy.
The service we give, masters selfishness
And helps with laziness too
And replaces them both with self-respect,
Benevolence and a broader view.
By losing yourself in serving your brothers
You will find yourself important to others.
That’s a good feeling that everyone needs
And you’ll keep it alive by doing kind deeds.
Service to others is a guaranteed way
To brighten your outlook from day to day.
While you solve the problems of others you’ll find
Your own fears and worries cease to trouble your mind.
“Whatever I do for society
Benefits me as a member of society.”–Socrates
Church teachings say service is one of the ways
To keep God’s commandments and learn
His laws for our welfare and happiness
That to heaven we may return
–Ward Hicken
The benefits of service by far exceed
The cost to you of each kindly deed.
From service comes talents and ability,
Competence, initiative, generosity,
Knowledge, experience, self-confidence,
Wisdom and responsibility.
Teachers learn more than students do
And leaders learn more than followers too.
Service to others expands your soul
And raises your sights to a higher goal.
When you help the sick and the handicapped
You feel kindness and sympathy,
Compassion, patience, tolerance ,
Consideration and empathy.
The service we give, masters selfishness
And helps with laziness too
And replaces them both with self-respect,
Benevolence and a broader view.
By losing yourself in serving your brothers
You will find yourself important to others.
That’s a good feeling that everyone needs
And you’ll keep it alive by doing kind deeds.
Service to others is a guaranteed way
To brighten your outlook from day to day.
While you solve the problems of others you’ll find
Your own fears and worries cease to trouble your mind.
“Whatever I do for society
Benefits me as a member of society.”–Socrates
Church teachings say service is one of the ways
To keep God’s commandments and learn
His laws for our welfare and happiness
That to heaven we may return
–Ward Hicken
THE JOURNEY OF LIFE
THE JOURNEY OF LIFE
Life is a journey that rolls along
Through times of troubles and times of song.
Through valleys and mountains and forests of trees
And prairies of grass and rivers and seas.
There are deserts of sand that are hot and dry
’Neath a blazing sun in a cloudless sky.
God made them all as part of His plan
To provide a variety of experiences for man.
We need problems and struggle to give us strength
And patience and courage and wisdom at length.
Earning a living, all the problems of man
Demand that we gain all the knowledge we can.
Families and work and play all have place,
And religion and beauty in challenges we face.
Music and poetry, drama and art
And literature and history all play their part.
To help us succeed God revealed instruction
To provide for our welfare and avoid destruction.
The restraining commandments avoid suffering and pain.
Through love and service, happiness we gain.
There are times when we suffer from cruelty,
Injustice and unkind actions:
But worse than the torment inflicted by them
Is the resentment we suffer through our own reactions.
God’s teachings tell you “Forgive and forget”.
Don’t relive painful insults or slights.
Replace them with happy memories
Of enjoyable thoughts and sights.
There are times when negative emotions,
Anger, tension, worry or stress
Can be relieved by vigorous, physical work
That alleviates our mental distress.
Good and bad experiences in the journey of life
We will have wherever we roam
But best of all are family and friends
And the love in “Home Sweet Home.”
–Ward Hicken
Life is a journey that rolls along
Through times of troubles and times of song.
Through valleys and mountains and forests of trees
And prairies of grass and rivers and seas.
There are deserts of sand that are hot and dry
’Neath a blazing sun in a cloudless sky.
God made them all as part of His plan
To provide a variety of experiences for man.
We need problems and struggle to give us strength
And patience and courage and wisdom at length.
Earning a living, all the problems of man
Demand that we gain all the knowledge we can.
Families and work and play all have place,
And religion and beauty in challenges we face.
Music and poetry, drama and art
And literature and history all play their part.
To help us succeed God revealed instruction
To provide for our welfare and avoid destruction.
The restraining commandments avoid suffering and pain.
Through love and service, happiness we gain.
There are times when we suffer from cruelty,
Injustice and unkind actions:
But worse than the torment inflicted by them
Is the resentment we suffer through our own reactions.
God’s teachings tell you “Forgive and forget”.
Don’t relive painful insults or slights.
Replace them with happy memories
Of enjoyable thoughts and sights.
There are times when negative emotions,
Anger, tension, worry or stress
Can be relieved by vigorous, physical work
That alleviates our mental distress.
Good and bad experiences in the journey of life
We will have wherever we roam
But best of all are family and friends
And the love in “Home Sweet Home.”
–Ward Hicken
THE ABUNDANT LIFE
THE ABUNDANT LIFE
Jesus said, “I am come that men might have life,
And that they might have it more abundantly”. (John 10:10)
His teachings are useful instructions
To help us live our life more abundantly.
Four programs promote the abundant life:
One is work to supply necessities,
Done in ways that develop good character,
Personality, knowledge and abilities.
A second is marriage and family life,
Where parents and children feel togetherness
And husband and wife united by love
Share love with their children for happiness.
Teaching children by precept and example
All the things that they need to know
And living their lives vicariously
Through all their experiences as they grow,
Providing home, food and clothing, protecting their health,
And social, emotional, and financial needs,
And church and community obligations
Make abundant the life each parent leads.
A third program of giving service to others
Improves qualities of character and personality,
Provides wide variety of experiences
And increases your knowledge and ability.
The fourth program : Support God’s church and its purposes.
Learn of God and His many blessings for you.
Enjoy the associations and activities.
Make friends and enjoy all the things that you do.
–Ward Hicken
Jesus said, “I am come that men might have life,
And that they might have it more abundantly”. (John 10:10)
His teachings are useful instructions
To help us live our life more abundantly.
Four programs promote the abundant life:
One is work to supply necessities,
Done in ways that develop good character,
Personality, knowledge and abilities.
A second is marriage and family life,
Where parents and children feel togetherness
And husband and wife united by love
Share love with their children for happiness.
Teaching children by precept and example
All the things that they need to know
And living their lives vicariously
Through all their experiences as they grow,
Providing home, food and clothing, protecting their health,
And social, emotional, and financial needs,
And church and community obligations
Make abundant the life each parent leads.
A third program of giving service to others
Improves qualities of character and personality,
Provides wide variety of experiences
And increases your knowledge and ability.
The fourth program : Support God’s church and its purposes.
Learn of God and His many blessings for you.
Enjoy the associations and activities.
Make friends and enjoy all the things that you do.
–Ward Hicken
FOR A BETTER WORLD
FOR A BETTER WORLD
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have others do unto you.
Love or friendship given by you
Like a boomerang always comes back to you.
For the kind of world you would like to see
Be the kind of a person you would like others to be.
Patience and courtesy on the highway
Could avoid many accidents every day.
Forgive and forget to ease mental stress
And clear your mind for happiness.
If deeds of kindness become your way
Happiness will be with you every day.
Happiness is the object of man’s existence,
Gained by service, kindness and love
And teachings in the Sermon-on-the-Mount
By Jesus, Son of God, from above.
Our purpose in life is to develop good qualities
Of personality, character, spirit and mind–
Gain knowledge, experience, wisdom and faith
And leave faults and weaknesses behind.
–Ward Hicken
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have others do unto you.
Love or friendship given by you
Like a boomerang always comes back to you.
For the kind of world you would like to see
Be the kind of a person you would like others to be.
Patience and courtesy on the highway
Could avoid many accidents every day.
Forgive and forget to ease mental stress
And clear your mind for happiness.
If deeds of kindness become your way
Happiness will be with you every day.
Happiness is the object of man’s existence,
Gained by service, kindness and love
And teachings in the Sermon-on-the-Mount
By Jesus, Son of God, from above.
Our purpose in life is to develop good qualities
Of personality, character, spirit and mind–
Gain knowledge, experience, wisdom and faith
And leave faults and weaknesses behind.
–Ward Hicken
THE DAMAGE OF NEGATIVE THINKING
THE DAMAGE OF NEGATIVE THINKING
Negative thoughts are destructive thoughts.
They restrict us in many ways.
They are obstacles to happiness
And to progress nights and days.
They point out the difficulties
Or say it can’t be done.
They say this life’s a “vale of tears”
And find faults with everyone.
They dispute the power of the principle of faith
And question the promises of God.
They don’t give praise or encouragement
But criticize rather than applaud.
Fault finding is part of a negative attitude.
Like a cancer it grows in your mind
Till you live in a world, where other than you,
A sensible person’s impossible to find.
Negative attitudes are liabilities
That prevent us from making a friend.
They blind our eyes to available ways
That enrich our lives to a happy end.
Reject negative attitudes without delay
While “You could if you would” - today;
Before you find the time has come when –
“You would if you could” – but it’s too late then.
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.”
“An ounce of mirth cures a pound of sorrow”
So treat yourself with some mirth today
And enjoy life today and tomorrow.
–Ward Hicken
Negative thoughts are destructive thoughts.
They restrict us in many ways.
They are obstacles to happiness
And to progress nights and days.
They point out the difficulties
Or say it can’t be done.
They say this life’s a “vale of tears”
And find faults with everyone.
They dispute the power of the principle of faith
And question the promises of God.
They don’t give praise or encouragement
But criticize rather than applaud.
Fault finding is part of a negative attitude.
Like a cancer it grows in your mind
Till you live in a world, where other than you,
A sensible person’s impossible to find.
Negative attitudes are liabilities
That prevent us from making a friend.
They blind our eyes to available ways
That enrich our lives to a happy end.
Reject negative attitudes without delay
While “You could if you would” - today;
Before you find the time has come when –
“You would if you could” – but it’s too late then.
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.”
“An ounce of mirth cures a pound of sorrow”
So treat yourself with some mirth today
And enjoy life today and tomorrow.
–Ward Hicken
THE WAYS OF GOD
THE WAYS OF GOD
The ways of God bring happiness.
They fill the heart with love,
They dispel the gloom of darkness
Like Sun and Moon and Stars above.
They promote the joys of family life
With the love of husband and love of wife,
And loving happy children
And teachings that banish strife.
They provide for loving grandparents
And loving grandchildren too.
They also include loving relatives,
Many more than just a few.
God’s teachings give hopes and ambitions
And goals that provide motivation,
Instructions for living a happy life,
And special help through inspiration.
His teachings are found in the scriptures.
Search for those most helpful to you
To build personality and character essential
For success in all that you do.
First, love Jesus, who set an example.
He was friendly, unselfish and kind
To the learned, the ignorant, the rich and the poor
And lost sheep he wanted to find.
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have others do unto you.
Make your world the kind you would like to see
By being the person you’d like others to be.
Daily work and acts of service
And many church activities
Make friends and accomplish your purpose on earth
By developing a variety of abilities.
Thank God for the many blessings
He has generously given to you.
The more you thank God your blessings for:
The more blessings you’ll have to be thankful for.
–Ward Hicken
The ways of God bring happiness.
They fill the heart with love,
They dispel the gloom of darkness
Like Sun and Moon and Stars above.
They promote the joys of family life
With the love of husband and love of wife,
And loving happy children
And teachings that banish strife.
They provide for loving grandparents
And loving grandchildren too.
They also include loving relatives,
Many more than just a few.
God’s teachings give hopes and ambitions
And goals that provide motivation,
Instructions for living a happy life,
And special help through inspiration.
His teachings are found in the scriptures.
Search for those most helpful to you
To build personality and character essential
For success in all that you do.
First, love Jesus, who set an example.
He was friendly, unselfish and kind
To the learned, the ignorant, the rich and the poor
And lost sheep he wanted to find.
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have others do unto you.
Make your world the kind you would like to see
By being the person you’d like others to be.
Daily work and acts of service
And many church activities
Make friends and accomplish your purpose on earth
By developing a variety of abilities.
Thank God for the many blessings
He has generously given to you.
The more you thank God your blessings for:
The more blessings you’ll have to be thankful for.
–Ward Hicken
PATIENCE
PATIENCE
Of all the virtues to be developed by man
Patience is the most needed since time began.
Every time you must stand in line
Or while food is prepared so you can dine.
While waiting for a check to come in the mail
To pay your bills so your credit will not fail.
When that inconsiderate so-and-so
Makes late the carpool as to work you go.
For mothers during long months of pregnancy
Till the ordeal is over and the baby they see.
Patience and time for children to grow
Is something all children and parents must know.
Patience is required for the body’s healing
To return, after sickness, to a vigorous feeling.
Patience is needed for relaxation
Sleep and rest and regeneration.
Patience all athletes must possess
For the hours of practice that bring success.
Patience is a part of persistence,
Perseverance and dogged endurance .
Resolve to be patient! Make it your goal!
It will help you all your emotions control.
Patience makes you a master of chance
Instead of a victim of circumstance.
Patience is part of serenity,
Peace of mind. calmness, tranquility.
Patience is the very soul of peace
As it causes all annoyances to cease.
Patience while waiting can be enjoyable for you
If you plan something interesting to think and do.
–Ward Hicken
Of all the virtues to be developed by man
Patience is the most needed since time began.
Every time you must stand in line
Or while food is prepared so you can dine.
While waiting for a check to come in the mail
To pay your bills so your credit will not fail.
When that inconsiderate so-and-so
Makes late the carpool as to work you go.
For mothers during long months of pregnancy
Till the ordeal is over and the baby they see.
Patience and time for children to grow
Is something all children and parents must know.
Patience is required for the body’s healing
To return, after sickness, to a vigorous feeling.
Patience is needed for relaxation
Sleep and rest and regeneration.
Patience all athletes must possess
For the hours of practice that bring success.
Patience is a part of persistence,
Perseverance and dogged endurance .
Resolve to be patient! Make it your goal!
It will help you all your emotions control.
Patience makes you a master of chance
Instead of a victim of circumstance.
Patience is part of serenity,
Peace of mind. calmness, tranquility.
Patience is the very soul of peace
As it causes all annoyances to cease.
Patience while waiting can be enjoyable for you
If you plan something interesting to think and do.
–Ward Hicken
PURPOSES
PURPOSES
We came to this life with purposes,
As children of God to be like Him,
To gain knowledge, experience and abilities
And-faith-that-brings blessings from Him.
He gave us potential to accomplish our goals
And instructions to help us succeed.
First, learn to follow instructions
From-Him-who-knows all the things that we need.
Develop and preserve our environment
That provides our food and other needs.
Work-to-harvest and enjoy earth’s bounties
And share them with others through kindly deeds.
Seek-knowledge-of-earth, of people and history
And laws and their consequences,
What-brings-rewards, what-causes-troubles.
God’s helpful teachings – their evidences.
The-Ten Commandments name our friends,
The-ones who- will our-welfare defend:
God and our father and mother.
On them we can depend!
The last five commandments warn us
Of-things-that-cause troubles and suffering,
Regrets and dreadful consequences.
On them we can depend!
The “Sermon -On-The-Mount” gives teachings
That promote our welfare and happiness,
Fill our lives with love and friendships,
Learning-experiences and rewards for faithfulness.
God’s teachings are principles of progress.
They give experience, wisdom, maturity,
Develop strength, endurance, self-discipline
Good -qualities of character and personality.
These qualities promote our welfare and happiness
And help us become all that we can be
“Be perfect as our Father in Heaven,”
Prepare us for opportunities in eternity.
–Ward Hicken
We came to this life with purposes,
As children of God to be like Him,
To gain knowledge, experience and abilities
And-faith-that-brings blessings from Him.
He gave us potential to accomplish our goals
And instructions to help us succeed.
First, learn to follow instructions
From-Him-who-knows all the things that we need.
Develop and preserve our environment
That provides our food and other needs.
Work-to-harvest and enjoy earth’s bounties
And share them with others through kindly deeds.
Seek-knowledge-of-earth, of people and history
And laws and their consequences,
What-brings-rewards, what-causes-troubles.
God’s helpful teachings – their evidences.
The-Ten Commandments name our friends,
The-ones who- will our-welfare defend:
God and our father and mother.
On them we can depend!
The last five commandments warn us
Of-things-that-cause troubles and suffering,
Regrets and dreadful consequences.
On them we can depend!
The “Sermon -On-The-Mount” gives teachings
That promote our welfare and happiness,
Fill our lives with love and friendships,
Learning-experiences and rewards for faithfulness.
God’s teachings are principles of progress.
They give experience, wisdom, maturity,
Develop strength, endurance, self-discipline
Good -qualities of character and personality.
These qualities promote our welfare and happiness
And help us become all that we can be
“Be perfect as our Father in Heaven,”
Prepare us for opportunities in eternity.
–Ward Hicken
MEEKNESS - HUMILITY
MEEKNESS - HUMILITY
Moses was raised as the son of a favored Egyptian princess. Josephus said the princess and her father, the king, were impressed by his unusual beauty and precocious wisdom and mental abilities. He was educated with all the learning of the Egyptians and enjoyed all the privileges and opportunities the court could give. As general of the Egyptian armies he led them in battles. His boldness and sagacious strategies and battle methods decisively defeated the Ethiopians threatening Egypt. His education, training, experience and proven ability were ample reasons for exaggerated self-esteem, conceit and pride but he was described in Numbers 12:3 as “very meek, above all the men of the earth”. His humility and obedience to God’s commandments resulted in many miracles at his command including :
--parting the waters of the Red Sea while the Israelites crossed safely but drowning the Egyptian army that pursued them.
–causing water to flow out of a rock in the desert in a quantity adequate for the needs of nearly 3,000,000 people and their flocks and herds.
–providing manna to feed them every day.
Jesus performed many miracles such as:
He healed the sick, the crippled, the leper.
Cured the deaf and the dumb, gave them vigor of mind.
Calmed the wind and the waves on the stormy sea.
Walked on the water. Gave sight to the blind..
With five loaves of bread and few fishes he fed
Five thousand men plus their children and wives.
Restored to life Lazarus, who was four days dead!
But with all this power he said of himself,. “I am meek and lowly in heart.” The accomplishments of these two preclude all possibility that being “meek” had any connotation of weakness, inferiority, servility or groveling . On the contrary it implied traits of willingness to receive and obey instructions for our welfare and the welfare of others, seek knowledge and develop desirable qualities of personality, character, mind and spirit in ways that are recommended in the Sermon on the Mount, other scriptures and are explained throughout this book
Moses was raised as the son of a favored Egyptian princess. Josephus said the princess and her father, the king, were impressed by his unusual beauty and precocious wisdom and mental abilities. He was educated with all the learning of the Egyptians and enjoyed all the privileges and opportunities the court could give. As general of the Egyptian armies he led them in battles. His boldness and sagacious strategies and battle methods decisively defeated the Ethiopians threatening Egypt. His education, training, experience and proven ability were ample reasons for exaggerated self-esteem, conceit and pride but he was described in Numbers 12:3 as “very meek, above all the men of the earth”. His humility and obedience to God’s commandments resulted in many miracles at his command including :
--parting the waters of the Red Sea while the Israelites crossed safely but drowning the Egyptian army that pursued them.
–causing water to flow out of a rock in the desert in a quantity adequate for the needs of nearly 3,000,000 people and their flocks and herds.
–providing manna to feed them every day.
Jesus performed many miracles such as:
He healed the sick, the crippled, the leper.
Cured the deaf and the dumb, gave them vigor of mind.
Calmed the wind and the waves on the stormy sea.
Walked on the water. Gave sight to the blind..
With five loaves of bread and few fishes he fed
Five thousand men plus their children and wives.
Restored to life Lazarus, who was four days dead!
But with all this power he said of himself,. “I am meek and lowly in heart.” The accomplishments of these two preclude all possibility that being “meek” had any connotation of weakness, inferiority, servility or groveling . On the contrary it implied traits of willingness to receive and obey instructions for our welfare and the welfare of others, seek knowledge and develop desirable qualities of personality, character, mind and spirit in ways that are recommended in the Sermon on the Mount, other scriptures and are explained throughout this book
SOME HAPPY TEACHINGS OF JESUS
SOME HAPPY TEACHINGS OF JESUS
The teachings of Jesus in verse and in rhyme
Are instructions worth reading - time after time.
The teachings of Jesus bring happiness.
You’ll find them balm for the soul.
They’ll help you solve the problems of life.
They’re instructions for reaching life’s goal.
The teachings he gave will enrich your life
With tolerance, patience, avoidance of strife.
You can start each day with vigor and vim
Through the helpful teachings given by Him.
God has blessed your with moral agency
To choose what you’ll think and do.
You can choose things that cause you misery
Or things that bring happiness to you.
He gave us “The Ten Commandments”
To avoid troubles, contention and strife.
The Sermon on the Mount has instructions
For living a happy life.
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have others do unto you.
Make your world the kind you would like to see
By being the person you’d like others to be.
Love or friendship given by you,
Like a boomerang, always comes back to you.
As you love yourself you should love your neighbor:
When he needs help give him your labor.
Treat his needs as your very own needs
And happiness will result from your generous deeds.
As you sow, so shall you reap.
The more love you give, the more love you keep.
A loving friend is a priceless find
With happiness he will fill your mind.
A loving wife (or husband) is better than gold:
Your most precious possession as you grow old.
But love of God is desirable above all: (1 Nephi 11:22,23)
It will bring you happiness when on Him you call.
Love your enemies, make them your friends
When you do this - their enmity ends.
Your reactions can cause more damage to you
Than insults, persecution or torture can do
Reliving the things “that make you mad”
Is continuous suffering that is far worse than bad!
God’s teachings tell you “Forgive and forget”.
Don’t relive painful insults or slights.
Replace them with happy memories
Of enjoyable thoughts and sights.
“An eye for an eye” is a sure-enough way
To cause you troubles for many-a-day.
Forgive and forget for peace of mind
And happiness you will be sure to find.
For forgiveness from God - forgive fellow men.
Forget their offenses: He’ll forgive you then.
When someone compels you to walk a mile
Go a second one with a cheerful smile.
The “second mile” is where you acquire
Many virtues and qualities men admire.
An imaginative, resourceful, creative mind,
Stimulation, variety, enthusiasm you’ll find.
The man who does more than he’s paid to do
Will one day be paid for more than he’s able to do.(John D. Rockefeller)
Knowledge and virtues that God recommends
Are investments that pay highest dividends.
The down-hill and easy are ways to fail
For strength and wisdom they’re of no avail.
Blessed are you who have cause to mourn
For in prayer to God you’ll to comfort be borne.
Bless’d are those striving for righteousness.
That accomplishment will also bring happiness.
If you hunger and thirst for righteous ways
Make temple service a part of your days.
If purity of heart is your firm decision
You’ll be on your way to a heavenly vision.
When angry or negative thoughts you choose
The Spirit of God you will always lose.
When lustful thoughts occupy your day
The Holy Ghost is driven away.
Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain
Mercy from God. They’ll not ask in vain.
Peace makers must be God’s children of worth
As they strive to promote love-of-neighbor on earth.
May your good works be a guiding light
To people searching for truth.
Good examples are most effective teachers
For convincing both adults and youth.
Sermons heard may not last long,
But sermons seen make impressions strong.
Bless’d are those persecuted for righteousness’ sake
A place for themselves in Heaven they’ll make.
When others revile and spread lies about you
For Jesus’ sake, as they sometimes do,
So persecuted they the prophets too.
Great reward in Heaven will come to you.
“The poor in spirit who come unto me
Will in the kingdom of heaven be.”
Pray not in public as hypocrites do.
But secret prayer will bring God to you.
Use no repetitions when you pray
But frequent prayers will make your day.
Take heed that you do not your alms before men
Or the rewards God would give to you - you’ll forfeit then.
Each time you fast wear a cheerful look.
You can read the rewards in God’s holy book. (Matt 6:16-18)
Seeking knowledge from good books each day
Will help you solve problems in every way.
The treasures you valued so much while on earth,
In the next life you’ll find they have little worth.
If you strive not “to have” - but rather “to be” -
Your treasures will last for eternity.
What you look for is what you’ll see.
Look for good in others: you’ll happy be.
Look for faults in others: you’ll find them without end
But you’ll be unhappy – and without a friend!
Don’t try to serve two masters or sit on the fence.
Serve God: he’ll reward you and be your defense.
The more we thank God our blessings for:
The more blessings we’ll have to be thankful for.
“Ask and it shall be given to you;
Seek and ye shall find.”
Prayers will be answered, God will hear,
And stimulate your mind.
Church activities teach ways to live
And develop your skill in human relations,
Improve personality, character and mind
Spirituality and inspirations.
Church assignments provide many experiences
Of learning, serving and giving,
Promote talents, abilities, self-confidence, friendships–
A prescription for happy living.
Church activities bring you friends,
Enthusiasm, variety, dividends.
God decreed man should work every day
To provide the needs for his life.
Work is a learning experience
Essential for a happy life.
Strenuous work brings restful sleep,
Promotes health and vigor of mind,
Self-confidence, and self-respect.
It also leaves worries behind.
The greatest reward for your work is not
The wages that are paid to you:
It’s the knowledge, personality and character,
The experience can develop in you.
Honor thy father and mother
That long thy days may be
And happy in the land
That the Lord, God, giveth thee.(Ex 20:12)
So seek first the works of God to do
And the blessings of God will come unto you.
This is just a start in the teachings of God.
Search the scriptures, you’ll find many more.
And the wisdom of Solomon you’ll surely applaud
In the “Proverbs” he wrote by the score.
(The Sermon on the Mount was the inspiration for most of these.)
The teachings of Jesus in verse and in rhyme
Are instructions worth reading - time after time.
The teachings of Jesus bring happiness.
You’ll find them balm for the soul.
They’ll help you solve the problems of life.
They’re instructions for reaching life’s goal.
The teachings he gave will enrich your life
With tolerance, patience, avoidance of strife.
You can start each day with vigor and vim
Through the helpful teachings given by Him.
God has blessed your with moral agency
To choose what you’ll think and do.
You can choose things that cause you misery
Or things that bring happiness to you.
He gave us “The Ten Commandments”
To avoid troubles, contention and strife.
The Sermon on the Mount has instructions
For living a happy life.
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have others do unto you.
Make your world the kind you would like to see
By being the person you’d like others to be.
Love or friendship given by you,
Like a boomerang, always comes back to you.
As you love yourself you should love your neighbor:
When he needs help give him your labor.
Treat his needs as your very own needs
And happiness will result from your generous deeds.
As you sow, so shall you reap.
The more love you give, the more love you keep.
A loving friend is a priceless find
With happiness he will fill your mind.
A loving wife (or husband) is better than gold:
Your most precious possession as you grow old.
But love of God is desirable above all: (1 Nephi 11:22,23)
It will bring you happiness when on Him you call.
Love your enemies, make them your friends
When you do this - their enmity ends.
Your reactions can cause more damage to you
Than insults, persecution or torture can do
Reliving the things “that make you mad”
Is continuous suffering that is far worse than bad!
God’s teachings tell you “Forgive and forget”.
Don’t relive painful insults or slights.
Replace them with happy memories
Of enjoyable thoughts and sights.
“An eye for an eye” is a sure-enough way
To cause you troubles for many-a-day.
Forgive and forget for peace of mind
And happiness you will be sure to find.
For forgiveness from God - forgive fellow men.
Forget their offenses: He’ll forgive you then.
When someone compels you to walk a mile
Go a second one with a cheerful smile.
The “second mile” is where you acquire
Many virtues and qualities men admire.
An imaginative, resourceful, creative mind,
Stimulation, variety, enthusiasm you’ll find.
The man who does more than he’s paid to do
Will one day be paid for more than he’s able to do.(John D. Rockefeller)
Knowledge and virtues that God recommends
Are investments that pay highest dividends.
The down-hill and easy are ways to fail
For strength and wisdom they’re of no avail.
Blessed are you who have cause to mourn
For in prayer to God you’ll to comfort be borne.
Bless’d are those striving for righteousness.
That accomplishment will also bring happiness.
If you hunger and thirst for righteous ways
Make temple service a part of your days.
If purity of heart is your firm decision
You’ll be on your way to a heavenly vision.
When angry or negative thoughts you choose
The Spirit of God you will always lose.
When lustful thoughts occupy your day
The Holy Ghost is driven away.
Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain
Mercy from God. They’ll not ask in vain.
Peace makers must be God’s children of worth
As they strive to promote love-of-neighbor on earth.
May your good works be a guiding light
To people searching for truth.
Good examples are most effective teachers
For convincing both adults and youth.
Sermons heard may not last long,
But sermons seen make impressions strong.
Bless’d are those persecuted for righteousness’ sake
A place for themselves in Heaven they’ll make.
When others revile and spread lies about you
For Jesus’ sake, as they sometimes do,
So persecuted they the prophets too.
Great reward in Heaven will come to you.
“The poor in spirit who come unto me
Will in the kingdom of heaven be.”
Pray not in public as hypocrites do.
But secret prayer will bring God to you.
Use no repetitions when you pray
But frequent prayers will make your day.
Take heed that you do not your alms before men
Or the rewards God would give to you - you’ll forfeit then.
Each time you fast wear a cheerful look.
You can read the rewards in God’s holy book. (Matt 6:16-18)
Seeking knowledge from good books each day
Will help you solve problems in every way.
The treasures you valued so much while on earth,
In the next life you’ll find they have little worth.
If you strive not “to have” - but rather “to be” -
Your treasures will last for eternity.
What you look for is what you’ll see.
Look for good in others: you’ll happy be.
Look for faults in others: you’ll find them without end
But you’ll be unhappy – and without a friend!
Don’t try to serve two masters or sit on the fence.
Serve God: he’ll reward you and be your defense.
The more we thank God our blessings for:
The more blessings we’ll have to be thankful for.
“Ask and it shall be given to you;
Seek and ye shall find.”
Prayers will be answered, God will hear,
And stimulate your mind.
Church activities teach ways to live
And develop your skill in human relations,
Improve personality, character and mind
Spirituality and inspirations.
Church assignments provide many experiences
Of learning, serving and giving,
Promote talents, abilities, self-confidence, friendships–
A prescription for happy living.
Church activities bring you friends,
Enthusiasm, variety, dividends.
God decreed man should work every day
To provide the needs for his life.
Work is a learning experience
Essential for a happy life.
Strenuous work brings restful sleep,
Promotes health and vigor of mind,
Self-confidence, and self-respect.
It also leaves worries behind.
The greatest reward for your work is not
The wages that are paid to you:
It’s the knowledge, personality and character,
The experience can develop in you.
Honor thy father and mother
That long thy days may be
And happy in the land
That the Lord, God, giveth thee.(Ex 20:12)
So seek first the works of God to do
And the blessings of God will come unto you.
This is just a start in the teachings of God.
Search the scriptures, you’ll find many more.
And the wisdom of Solomon you’ll surely applaud
In the “Proverbs” he wrote by the score.
(The Sermon on the Mount was the inspiration for most of these.)
PRAYER
PRAYER
Father in Heaven we humbly pray
For Thy love and guidance every day.
Help us repent of trespass and sin
And replace them with love and obedience within.
Help us give service and friendship to others,
Share the gospel with all and love all men as brothers.
May we keep Thy commandments and do Thy will,
Seek Thy wisdom and all Thy purposes fulfill.
In the name of Jesus Christ - Amen!
–Ward Hicken
Father in Heaven we humbly pray
For Thy love and guidance every day.
Help us repent of trespass and sin
And replace them with love and obedience within.
Help us give service and friendship to others,
Share the gospel with all and love all men as brothers.
May we keep Thy commandments and do Thy will,
Seek Thy wisdom and all Thy purposes fulfill.
In the name of Jesus Christ - Amen!
–Ward Hicken
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I thank God for my abundant life,
The happiness and the joy
I’ve received from my loving wife and daughter
And the good times I’ve had with each boy.
God has blessed me with an abundant life
Of wonderful health and material things.
He has protected me from disasters
And the troubles tabooed substance brings.
He has enriched my life with His teachings,
Many church activities,
Good friends and good associates
And a variety of enjoyable opportunities.
-Ward Hicken
I thank God for my abundant life,
The happiness and the joy
I’ve received from my loving wife and daughter
And the good times I’ve had with each boy.
God has blessed me with an abundant life
Of wonderful health and material things.
He has protected me from disasters
And the troubles tabooed substance brings.
He has enriched my life with His teachings,
Many church activities,
Good friends and good associates
And a variety of enjoyable opportunities.
-Ward Hicken
Sunday, August 19, 2007
HAPPY MOMENTS WITH JESUS
The time I spend reading the stories of Jesus
Brings happiness to me
I relate to him as he walks among men
And blesses them generously.
I can read those adventures again and again
And relive His loving deeds
As he walked the pathways of Galilee
And filled the peoples’ needs.
He attended a marriage in Cana
With apostles, as neighbor and friend.
His mother told him the host had a problem
And asked him a hand to lend.
The wine was all gone-- a disaster!
Not Jesus’ problem, but his mother knew
His sympathy for others and his kindness
Would cause him something to do.
His mother said to the servants
“Do what he tells you to do.”
“Fill-these-waterpots full-to-the-brim,” said he
“With water. Draw from them
What you need to serve.”
They took it to the master of the feast and he
Said, “This last wine is better than the first.
How did that happen to be?”
This beginning of miracles did Jesus
In Cana of Galilee.
This manifestation of his power
His believing disciples did see.
To him came a man with withered hand
Useless and pitiful to see.
With a word Jesus restored its strength and look
As useful as the other hand would be.
There was brought to him one possessed with a devil
Helpless, dumb and blind.
Jesus healed him and gave him welcome sight
And ability to speak with unhindered mind.
To Jesus came a leper who worshiped him and said,
Lord, If thou wilt thou canst make me clean.
Jesus put forth his hand and touched the man
And said, I will. Be thou clean.
And the leprosy was cleansed immediately.
And Jesus said, Tell no man but go thy way
Show thy self to the priest and give a gift
As commanded by Moses and be on thy way.
In Capernaum a centurion approached Jesus
Saying, Lord, my servant has palsy.
Jesus said, I will come and heal him.
But the centurion said, Speak the word only
And my servant shall be well.
Jesus marveled and said to those following
Such faith I have not seen in all Israel.
From a Roman that faith is most heartening.
And Jesus said to the centurion,
“By thy faith so shall it be done unto thee.”
The servant was healed in that self-same hour
And from the palsy he was once again free.
And when Jesus was come unto Peter’s house
Peter’s wife’s mother was ill.
Jesus touched her and she was healed and
She served them in health and with a will.
When even was come they brought many to him
Those possessed with spirits and devils.
He cast our the spirits and healed them
Of sicknesses and of all evils.
And he entered a ship and the disciples went too.
He slept. Though a tempest arose and a strong wind blew,
The waves rose higher and the wind blew stronger
Till the terrified disciples could endure it no longer.
Then they came to him in fear and awoke him saying,
Master we perish. Save us O Lord!
And he said, “ Why do ye fear, ye of little faith?”
And he calmed the wind and the waves with his word.
When he came to the country of the Gergesenes
Two men possessed of devils came out of a tomb
And said, Jesus, thou Son of God, art thou
Come to torment us before our time of doom?
And they besought him saying, If thou cast us out
Suffer us to go into that herd of swine.
And he said, Go. And the whole herd ran violently
Into the sea from over a steep incline.
Then he took a ship to his own country.
And they brought him a palsied man, helpless on a bed.
And seeing their faith he said to the man,
Arise and walk. Go to thy house and carry thy bed.
Jesus went from thence and saw a man
Named Matthew collecting custom
And he said to this tax-collector
Follow me and Matthew followed him.
As Jesus sat at meat in a house
Sinners and publicans sat with him as he dined.
When Pharisees objected he said, They that are whole
Have no need of a doctor but they whose health has declined.
A ruler worshipped him and said,
My daughter is dead but if you’ll put your hand
On her I know that she will live.
When they came to the house the mourners did stand
Making noise, but Jesus said, Give place.
For she is not dead but only asleep.
Then he took her hand and the maid arose
And her parents had no more cause to weep.
A woman with a twelve- year-long-issue of blood
Thought by touching his robe she’d be made whole.
Jesus felt power go out of him and turned and saw her
And said, Woman thy faith hath made thee whole.
Two blind men said, Lord have mercy on us.
He said, Have you faith in what I can do?
They said, Yea, Lord! We have faith.
And he said, By your faith be it unto you.
And they brought a blind man possessed with a devil.
He cast out the devil, the man saw and was well.
The multitude marveled and said to each other
It was never so seen in all Israel.
When Jesus heard of John’s death
He went to a desert place apart.
But the people followed him out of the cities
And from him they would not depart.
When he saw the multitude he was filled with compassion.
He gave comfort to all and healed sick without number.
At evening the disciples said, Master it is late.
Send the people to the village to get food and slumber.
But Jesus said to the concerned disciples,
They need not depart. Give ye them to eat.
They said, We’ve but five loaves and two little fishes.
He said bring them and have the people take a seat.
Then he blessed the food and brake it in pieces,
And gave it to the disciples to give to all.
All ate till their hunger was satisfied
And left-over fragments into twelve baskets did fall.
And they who had eaten were five thousand men
In addition to wives and children of them.
Jesus sent the disciples in a ship to go
To the other side of the lake
While he went to a mountain apart and alone
Where prayer to the Father he could make.
In the middle of the night tossed by wind and wave,
As the ship rode the stormy sea,
The amazed disciples saw Jesus come
Calmly walking on the sea
They thought it was a spirit and cried out in fear.
Jesus said , Be not afraid of me.
Peter said, Lord if be thou bid me come
And walk on the water to thee.
Peter came and walked on the water
Till he doubted and started to sink.
And cried, Save me Lord! Jesus saved him
And said, Why of doubts did you think?
Then they went to the land of Gennesaret
Where people had faith in his role.
Many asked to touch the hem of his garment
And as many as touched it were made whole.
Jesus then went to coasts of Tyre and Sidon.
There a Caananite woman cried, Make-my-daughter-well!
Have mercy on me thou son of David.
But he said I am not sent but to Israel.
It is not meet to take the children’s bread
And cast it unto the dogs instead.
But she said, True .Lord, but the dogs eat crumbs
That fall from the master’s table.
Then Jesus said, Great is thy faith. Thy daughter
Shall be healed for thy faith is able.
In Galilee Jesus went up into a mountain
And a multitude came bringing blind and lame
And dumb and maimed and he healed them all
And they worshiped him and spread his fame.
But better than stories of long ago
Are blessings he gave for you and me:
Come unto me, all ye that labor
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
Brings happiness to me
I relate to him as he walks among men
And blesses them generously.
I can read those adventures again and again
And relive His loving deeds
As he walked the pathways of Galilee
And filled the peoples’ needs.
He attended a marriage in Cana
With apostles, as neighbor and friend.
His mother told him the host had a problem
And asked him a hand to lend.
The wine was all gone-- a disaster!
Not Jesus’ problem, but his mother knew
His sympathy for others and his kindness
Would cause him something to do.
His mother said to the servants
“Do what he tells you to do.”
“Fill-these-waterpots full-to-the-brim,” said he
“With water. Draw from them
What you need to serve.”
They took it to the master of the feast and he
Said, “This last wine is better than the first.
How did that happen to be?”
This beginning of miracles did Jesus
In Cana of Galilee.
This manifestation of his power
His believing disciples did see.
To him came a man with withered hand
Useless and pitiful to see.
With a word Jesus restored its strength and look
As useful as the other hand would be.
There was brought to him one possessed with a devil
Helpless, dumb and blind.
Jesus healed him and gave him welcome sight
And ability to speak with unhindered mind.
To Jesus came a leper who worshiped him and said,
Lord, If thou wilt thou canst make me clean.
Jesus put forth his hand and touched the man
And said, I will. Be thou clean.
And the leprosy was cleansed immediately.
And Jesus said, Tell no man but go thy way
Show thy self to the priest and give a gift
As commanded by Moses and be on thy way.
In Capernaum a centurion approached Jesus
Saying, Lord, my servant has palsy.
Jesus said, I will come and heal him.
But the centurion said, Speak the word only
And my servant shall be well.
Jesus marveled and said to those following
Such faith I have not seen in all Israel.
From a Roman that faith is most heartening.
And Jesus said to the centurion,
“By thy faith so shall it be done unto thee.”
The servant was healed in that self-same hour
And from the palsy he was once again free.
And when Jesus was come unto Peter’s house
Peter’s wife’s mother was ill.
Jesus touched her and she was healed and
She served them in health and with a will.
When even was come they brought many to him
Those possessed with spirits and devils.
He cast our the spirits and healed them
Of sicknesses and of all evils.
And he entered a ship and the disciples went too.
He slept. Though a tempest arose and a strong wind blew,
The waves rose higher and the wind blew stronger
Till the terrified disciples could endure it no longer.
Then they came to him in fear and awoke him saying,
Master we perish. Save us O Lord!
And he said, “ Why do ye fear, ye of little faith?”
And he calmed the wind and the waves with his word.
When he came to the country of the Gergesenes
Two men possessed of devils came out of a tomb
And said, Jesus, thou Son of God, art thou
Come to torment us before our time of doom?
And they besought him saying, If thou cast us out
Suffer us to go into that herd of swine.
And he said, Go. And the whole herd ran violently
Into the sea from over a steep incline.
Then he took a ship to his own country.
And they brought him a palsied man, helpless on a bed.
And seeing their faith he said to the man,
Arise and walk. Go to thy house and carry thy bed.
Jesus went from thence and saw a man
Named Matthew collecting custom
And he said to this tax-collector
Follow me and Matthew followed him.
As Jesus sat at meat in a house
Sinners and publicans sat with him as he dined.
When Pharisees objected he said, They that are whole
Have no need of a doctor but they whose health has declined.
A ruler worshipped him and said,
My daughter is dead but if you’ll put your hand
On her I know that she will live.
When they came to the house the mourners did stand
Making noise, but Jesus said, Give place.
For she is not dead but only asleep.
Then he took her hand and the maid arose
And her parents had no more cause to weep.
A woman with a twelve- year-long-issue of blood
Thought by touching his robe she’d be made whole.
Jesus felt power go out of him and turned and saw her
And said, Woman thy faith hath made thee whole.
Two blind men said, Lord have mercy on us.
He said, Have you faith in what I can do?
They said, Yea, Lord! We have faith.
And he said, By your faith be it unto you.
And they brought a blind man possessed with a devil.
He cast out the devil, the man saw and was well.
The multitude marveled and said to each other
It was never so seen in all Israel.
When Jesus heard of John’s death
He went to a desert place apart.
But the people followed him out of the cities
And from him they would not depart.
When he saw the multitude he was filled with compassion.
He gave comfort to all and healed sick without number.
At evening the disciples said, Master it is late.
Send the people to the village to get food and slumber.
But Jesus said to the concerned disciples,
They need not depart. Give ye them to eat.
They said, We’ve but five loaves and two little fishes.
He said bring them and have the people take a seat.
Then he blessed the food and brake it in pieces,
And gave it to the disciples to give to all.
All ate till their hunger was satisfied
And left-over fragments into twelve baskets did fall.
And they who had eaten were five thousand men
In addition to wives and children of them.
Jesus sent the disciples in a ship to go
To the other side of the lake
While he went to a mountain apart and alone
Where prayer to the Father he could make.
In the middle of the night tossed by wind and wave,
As the ship rode the stormy sea,
The amazed disciples saw Jesus come
Calmly walking on the sea
They thought it was a spirit and cried out in fear.
Jesus said , Be not afraid of me.
Peter said, Lord if be thou bid me come
And walk on the water to thee.
Peter came and walked on the water
Till he doubted and started to sink.
And cried, Save me Lord! Jesus saved him
And said, Why of doubts did you think?
Then they went to the land of Gennesaret
Where people had faith in his role.
Many asked to touch the hem of his garment
And as many as touched it were made whole.
Jesus then went to coasts of Tyre and Sidon.
There a Caananite woman cried, Make-my-daughter-well!
Have mercy on me thou son of David.
But he said I am not sent but to Israel.
It is not meet to take the children’s bread
And cast it unto the dogs instead.
But she said, True .Lord, but the dogs eat crumbs
That fall from the master’s table.
Then Jesus said, Great is thy faith. Thy daughter
Shall be healed for thy faith is able.
In Galilee Jesus went up into a mountain
And a multitude came bringing blind and lame
And dumb and maimed and he healed them all
And they worshiped him and spread his fame.
But better than stories of long ago
Are blessings he gave for you and me:
Come unto me, all ye that labor
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
THE KINDNESS OF JESUS
At Easter I think about Jesus
And his infinite kindness when
He suffered for our sins, then overcame death
To provide salvation for men.
When the soldiers crucified Jesus
They reviled him and mocked him too!
But he said "Father forgive them.
For they know not what they do."
To accusers of the woman adulteress
He said, "Let him that is without sin cast the first stone."
To the woman he said, "Hath no man condemned thee?
Nor do I. Sin no more. Go thy way-- alone."
He healed the sick and the crippled
Raised the dead, cured the leper, the blind.
With few fishes and loaves fed five thousand!
Cast out devils from those troubled in mind.
Jesus was kind.
When Jesus spoke in parables
The characters he would use
To set the stage for a lesson
That clearly expressed His views.
The good shepherd was tired and hungry
When his chores for the many were done
But out in the dark cold desert he went
To find the wandering one.
The prodigal son was a wastrel
Who cared not for his father's pain
But his loving father embraced him and said,
"My son who was lost is found again."
Jesus' every teaching showed kindness
Concern for the helpless, the poor.
He offered the hope of eternal life--
With repentance to open the door.
When I stand at the judgment bar of God
And my faults are all brought to mind
I'll want Jesus to be my advocate
For I know that He'll be kind.
-Ward Hicken
And his infinite kindness when
He suffered for our sins, then overcame death
To provide salvation for men.
When the soldiers crucified Jesus
They reviled him and mocked him too!
But he said "Father forgive them.
For they know not what they do."
To accusers of the woman adulteress
He said, "Let him that is without sin cast the first stone."
To the woman he said, "Hath no man condemned thee?
Nor do I. Sin no more. Go thy way-- alone."
He healed the sick and the crippled
Raised the dead, cured the leper, the blind.
With few fishes and loaves fed five thousand!
Cast out devils from those troubled in mind.
Jesus was kind.
When Jesus spoke in parables
The characters he would use
To set the stage for a lesson
That clearly expressed His views.
The good shepherd was tired and hungry
When his chores for the many were done
But out in the dark cold desert he went
To find the wandering one.
The prodigal son was a wastrel
Who cared not for his father's pain
But his loving father embraced him and said,
"My son who was lost is found again."
Jesus' every teaching showed kindness
Concern for the helpless, the poor.
He offered the hope of eternal life--
With repentance to open the door.
When I stand at the judgment bar of God
And my faults are all brought to mind
I'll want Jesus to be my advocate
For I know that He'll be kind.
-Ward Hicken
MEMORIES OF JESUS AT EASTER TIME
When Jesus roamed the little lanes,
In hills of Galilee,
He grew "in favor with God and man"
Loving, - as only the Son of God could be.
He observed the lives of other people,
The problems they faced from day to day,
Their joys and sorrows, temptations and challenges,
Their reactions in every way.
He developed sympathy and empathy,
Consideration for the feelings of others,
And said, "As ye would have others do unto you,
Do ye therefore unto others."
He recommended compassion and kindness,
Tolerance, forgiveness and love,
To bring happiness to us in this life
And prepare us for Heaven above.
He healed the sick, the crippled, the leper,
Cast out devils from those troubled in mind,
Calmed the wind and the waves on the stormy sea,
Raised the dead, gave sight to the blind.
As the climax to his life of loving service,
He suffered mentally in Gethsemane.
Then humiliation, abuse and pain on the cross,
That from sin all men could redeemed be.
We cannot comprehend his suffering for us,
But we can have faith in his words:
"Though your sins be as scarlet," I want you to know
"If you come unto me, they'll be cleansed white as snow!"
The sublime sequel to his atoning sacrifice,
The complement service of his endless affection,
Was his gift to all men, from the Son of God:
The miracle and promise - of RESURRECTION!
-Ward Hicken
In hills of Galilee,
He grew "in favor with God and man"
Loving, - as only the Son of God could be.
He observed the lives of other people,
The problems they faced from day to day,
Their joys and sorrows, temptations and challenges,
Their reactions in every way.
He developed sympathy and empathy,
Consideration for the feelings of others,
And said, "As ye would have others do unto you,
Do ye therefore unto others."
He recommended compassion and kindness,
Tolerance, forgiveness and love,
To bring happiness to us in this life
And prepare us for Heaven above.
He healed the sick, the crippled, the leper,
Cast out devils from those troubled in mind,
Calmed the wind and the waves on the stormy sea,
Raised the dead, gave sight to the blind.
As the climax to his life of loving service,
He suffered mentally in Gethsemane.
Then humiliation, abuse and pain on the cross,
That from sin all men could redeemed be.
We cannot comprehend his suffering for us,
But we can have faith in his words:
"Though your sins be as scarlet," I want you to know
"If you come unto me, they'll be cleansed white as snow!"
The sublime sequel to his atoning sacrifice,
The complement service of his endless affection,
Was his gift to all men, from the Son of God:
The miracle and promise - of RESURRECTION!
-Ward Hicken
THOUGHTS FOR EASTER
Despair filled the hearts of the followers of Jesus.
He'd been betrayed by Judas, taken by a mob,
Tortured, humiliated, falsely accused,
Denied justice and crucified.
He'd lived a life of healing, blessing and service,
Of unprecedented kindness and love,
Taught forgiveness, tolerance, unselfishness, peace,
Obedience to the laws of God and man.
He was gone! Rejected by the nation's leaders
And the mob that followed them.
What could his followers do if He had failed?
What was left that they could do?
When the Sabbath was ended Mary went to the tomb.
It was empty. The body of Jesus was gone!
She turned downcast eyes to him, she thought was the gardener,
To ask where the body had been taken.
A loving voice answered her -- Mary?
She looked up, and her joy-filled voice cried RABBONI!
He gently said, "Touch me not for I'm not yet ascended
To my Father. Go to my brethren and tell them, I live!
I go to my Father, your Father, my God and your God.
The I'll come to my brethren and give them instructions."
When he came to them he said, "Peace be to you.
As my Father hath sent me, so send I you.
Go to all nations and feed my sheep."
And he gave them the Holy Ghost and power
To bind on earth and it should be bound in heaven
And to do, in his name, the things he had done.
Through his suffering and death Jesus atoned
For the sins of all who would repent.
Through His resurrection He brought resurrection
To you and to me, to all women, to all men,
This gift of love from Jesus, the living Son of God
-Ward Hicken
He'd been betrayed by Judas, taken by a mob,
Tortured, humiliated, falsely accused,
Denied justice and crucified.
He'd lived a life of healing, blessing and service,
Of unprecedented kindness and love,
Taught forgiveness, tolerance, unselfishness, peace,
Obedience to the laws of God and man.
He was gone! Rejected by the nation's leaders
And the mob that followed them.
What could his followers do if He had failed?
What was left that they could do?
When the Sabbath was ended Mary went to the tomb.
It was empty. The body of Jesus was gone!
She turned downcast eyes to him, she thought was the gardener,
To ask where the body had been taken.
A loving voice answered her -- Mary?
She looked up, and her joy-filled voice cried RABBONI!
He gently said, "Touch me not for I'm not yet ascended
To my Father. Go to my brethren and tell them, I live!
I go to my Father, your Father, my God and your God.
The I'll come to my brethren and give them instructions."
When he came to them he said, "Peace be to you.
As my Father hath sent me, so send I you.
Go to all nations and feed my sheep."
And he gave them the Holy Ghost and power
To bind on earth and it should be bound in heaven
And to do, in his name, the things he had done.
Through his suffering and death Jesus atoned
For the sins of all who would repent.
Through His resurrection He brought resurrection
To you and to me, to all women, to all men,
This gift of love from Jesus, the living Son of God
-Ward Hicken
THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS
When I think of the Christmas season
And the love and joy it brings,
I find that feelings take precedence
Over material things.
I want to be home for Christmas
And not on some glamorous shore,
For the joys of home and loved ones
Are better than thrills by the score.
Just to hear the Christmas Carols
Is better than any gift,
And the Bible story of Christmas
Always give my spirits a lift.
I sense the desperate feeling
Of Joseph and Mary forlorn,
When they cannot find a resting place
Where Mary's child can be born.
What a relief when they're offered a stable
With a manger and soft clean straw,
And the babe is delivered safely.
A perfect child - without flaw!
Then Heaven's approval is manifest
By the songs the angels sing:
"Glory to God! Peace among men!
All hail the new-born king!"
A new star appears in the heavens
To guide the wise men there.
And shepherds come to pay homage
To the baby Jesus fair.
Now that is the story of Christmas
But that is not the end,
For the baby became our Redeemer
And I've found Him to be my friend.
-Ward Hicken(1982)
And the love and joy it brings,
I find that feelings take precedence
Over material things.
I want to be home for Christmas
And not on some glamorous shore,
For the joys of home and loved ones
Are better than thrills by the score.
Just to hear the Christmas Carols
Is better than any gift,
And the Bible story of Christmas
Always give my spirits a lift.
I sense the desperate feeling
Of Joseph and Mary forlorn,
When they cannot find a resting place
Where Mary's child can be born.
What a relief when they're offered a stable
With a manger and soft clean straw,
And the babe is delivered safely.
A perfect child - without flaw!
Then Heaven's approval is manifest
By the songs the angels sing:
"Glory to God! Peace among men!
All hail the new-born king!"
A new star appears in the heavens
To guide the wise men there.
And shepherds come to pay homage
To the baby Jesus fair.
Now that is the story of Christmas
But that is not the end,
For the baby became our Redeemer
And I've found Him to be my friend.
-Ward Hicken(1982)
CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FOR CHRISTMAS DAY
Christmas lights, Christmas trees,
Christmas presents beneath the trees,
Christmas carols. All of these
Bring happy Christmas memories.
But Christmas is more than glittering lights
And presents under the trees.
It's the coming to earth of the Son of God
In His plan to set men free.
A Lamanite prophet foretold this event,
When a day and a night and a day
Of no darkness would herald the birth of God's son,
And a new star would shine forth its ray.
Shepherds rejoiced on Bethlehem's hills
When the music of angels was heard.
Announcing the birth of God's favorite son,
And his mission to bring Man the Word.
The 'Word' was "Rejoice and come unto me.
I'll shoulder your burden of sin
And teach you the way to return to God
That his kingdom you may enter in."
He atoned for our sins in Gethsemane.
On the cross his life he gave.
And as Son of God he overcame death
That we could arise from the grave.
So before the excitement of Christmas is over
And the lights of Christmas grow dim,
Let's review Jesus' teachings, adjust our life's goals
And pledge our allegiance to Him.
-Ward Hicken (2004)
Christmas presents beneath the trees,
Christmas carols. All of these
Bring happy Christmas memories.
But Christmas is more than glittering lights
And presents under the trees.
It's the coming to earth of the Son of God
In His plan to set men free.
A Lamanite prophet foretold this event,
When a day and a night and a day
Of no darkness would herald the birth of God's son,
And a new star would shine forth its ray.
Shepherds rejoiced on Bethlehem's hills
When the music of angels was heard.
Announcing the birth of God's favorite son,
And his mission to bring Man the Word.
The 'Word' was "Rejoice and come unto me.
I'll shoulder your burden of sin
And teach you the way to return to God
That his kingdom you may enter in."
He atoned for our sins in Gethsemane.
On the cross his life he gave.
And as Son of God he overcame death
That we could arise from the grave.
So before the excitement of Christmas is over
And the lights of Christmas grow dim,
Let's review Jesus' teachings, adjust our life's goals
And pledge our allegiance to Him.
-Ward Hicken (2004)
CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM SALT LAKE CITY
Myriad lights on Temple Square
Proclaim the Christmas Season.
And choruses sing of the birth of Jesus,
The reason for the season.
We celebrate with Christmas trees
And colorful decorations
And gifts for happy children
And dinners for friends and relations.
It started two thousand years ago
When angels announced the birth
Of the Son of God and Mary,
A Savior for all the earth.
Many prophets foretold his coming
And miraculous things He would do.
He healed the sick, the crippled, the leper
And restored to the blind their view.
Men came by the thousands to hear Him.
He taught them the gospel of love.
'Twas said, "He taught not as other men
But as one with authority from above."
He atoned for our sins in Gethsemane.
On the cross His life He gave,
And as Son of God He overcame death
That we could arise from the grave.
Happiness is the theme of the Christmas Season
And happiness will be our lot,
If we remember the teachings that Jesus gave
And live the laws that He taught.
-Ward Hicken (2005)
Proclaim the Christmas Season.
And choruses sing of the birth of Jesus,
The reason for the season.
We celebrate with Christmas trees
And colorful decorations
And gifts for happy children
And dinners for friends and relations.
It started two thousand years ago
When angels announced the birth
Of the Son of God and Mary,
A Savior for all the earth.
Many prophets foretold his coming
And miraculous things He would do.
He healed the sick, the crippled, the leper
And restored to the blind their view.
Men came by the thousands to hear Him.
He taught them the gospel of love.
'Twas said, "He taught not as other men
But as one with authority from above."
He atoned for our sins in Gethsemane.
On the cross His life He gave,
And as Son of God He overcame death
That we could arise from the grave.
Happiness is the theme of the Christmas Season
And happiness will be our lot,
If we remember the teachings that Jesus gave
And live the laws that He taught.
-Ward Hicken (2005)
GREETINGS FOR CHRISTMAS DAY
We remember the birth of Jesus this day;
And celebrate in a jubilant way.
With carols and lights and Christmas trees
And family dinners and memories.
And presents and greetings and Christmas cards
And parties in all the branches and wards.
But when the festivities of Christmas are gone
The teachings of Jesus will still linger on.
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have others do unto you.
Forgive and forget for peace of mind
And happiness you'll be sure to find.
Love or friendship given by you
Like a boomerang always come back to you.
Service to others a guaranteed way
To make you happy from day to day.
Jesus said his love will overcome fear
May that love bring you a Happy New Year!
- Ward Hicken
And celebrate in a jubilant way.
With carols and lights and Christmas trees
And family dinners and memories.
And presents and greetings and Christmas cards
And parties in all the branches and wards.
But when the festivities of Christmas are gone
The teachings of Jesus will still linger on.
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have others do unto you.
Forgive and forget for peace of mind
And happiness you'll be sure to find.
Love or friendship given by you
Like a boomerang always come back to you.
Service to others a guaranteed way
To make you happy from day to day.
Jesus said his love will overcome fear
May that love bring you a Happy New Year!
- Ward Hicken
CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FOR CHRISTMAS DAY
The spirit and message of the Christmas Season
Give many thoughts for our contemplations.
Our imaginations are stirred by the appearance of Angels
To shepherds tending their flocks near Bethlehem.
By their visit to the baby, born in a manger.
By the appearance of a bright new star in the heavens.
By the story of Three Wisemen guided by the star
To the baby predicted to be: "The King of Kings!"
He grew "in favor with God and man"
Loving, as only the Son of God could be.
Considerate of the feelings of others
Showed kindness, sympathy and empathy.
He recommended compassion and kindness,
Tolerance, forgiveness and love
To bring happiness to us in this life
And prepare us for Heaven above.
He healed the sick, the crippled, the leper,
Cast out devils from the troubled in mind,
Declared important the helping of others,
Raised the dead, gave sight to the blind.
As a climax to His life of loving service
He suffered mentally in Gethseamane
Then humiliation, abuse and pain on the cross
That from sin all men could redeemed be.
The sublime sequel to his atoning sacrifice,
The complement service of His endless service,
Was His gift to all men - from the Son of God
The miracle and promise of RESURRECTION!
So before the excitement of Christmas is over
And the lights of Christmas grow dim,
Let's review Jesus' teachings, adjust our life's goals
And pledge our allegiance to Him!
Jesus said His love will overcome fear.
May that love bring you a Happy New Year!
-Ward Hicken
Give many thoughts for our contemplations.
Our imaginations are stirred by the appearance of Angels
To shepherds tending their flocks near Bethlehem.
By their visit to the baby, born in a manger.
By the appearance of a bright new star in the heavens.
By the story of Three Wisemen guided by the star
To the baby predicted to be: "The King of Kings!"
He grew "in favor with God and man"
Loving, as only the Son of God could be.
Considerate of the feelings of others
Showed kindness, sympathy and empathy.
He recommended compassion and kindness,
Tolerance, forgiveness and love
To bring happiness to us in this life
And prepare us for Heaven above.
He healed the sick, the crippled, the leper,
Cast out devils from the troubled in mind,
Declared important the helping of others,
Raised the dead, gave sight to the blind.
As a climax to His life of loving service
He suffered mentally in Gethseamane
Then humiliation, abuse and pain on the cross
That from sin all men could redeemed be.
The sublime sequel to his atoning sacrifice,
The complement service of His endless service,
Was His gift to all men - from the Son of God
The miracle and promise of RESURRECTION!
So before the excitement of Christmas is over
And the lights of Christmas grow dim,
Let's review Jesus' teachings, adjust our life's goals
And pledge our allegiance to Him!
Jesus said His love will overcome fear.
May that love bring you a Happy New Year!
-Ward Hicken
GREETINGS FOR CHRISTMAS DAY
The Day of all Days, appointed on high
When the Star of all Stars appeared in the sky.
When Shepherds near Bethlehem tending their fold
Were given by Angels that story of old.
That the Son of God to Mary is born
And spirits in prison no longer need mourn.
Though a baby now, The Savior he'll be
For all who'll accept him. From sins they'll be free.
On this day of his birth we sing carols of joy
And give gifts in love to each girl and each boy.
With decorations and Christmas trees
Families and friends share in memories.
But when the festivities of Christmas are gone
The teachings of Jesus will still linger on.
Jesus, alone, can bring peace to us when
We accept his words, "Love! ...and forgive fellow men."
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have others do unto you.
Forgive and forget for peace of mind
And happiness you'll be sure to find.
Jesus said His love will overcome fear.
May that love bring you a Happy New Year!
- Ward Hicken 2006
When the Star of all Stars appeared in the sky.
When Shepherds near Bethlehem tending their fold
Were given by Angels that story of old.
That the Son of God to Mary is born
And spirits in prison no longer need mourn.
Though a baby now, The Savior he'll be
For all who'll accept him. From sins they'll be free.
On this day of his birth we sing carols of joy
And give gifts in love to each girl and each boy.
With decorations and Christmas trees
Families and friends share in memories.
But when the festivities of Christmas are gone
The teachings of Jesus will still linger on.
Jesus, alone, can bring peace to us when
We accept his words, "Love! ...and forgive fellow men."
Do unto others the things that you
Would like to have others do unto you.
Forgive and forget for peace of mind
And happiness you'll be sure to find.
Jesus said His love will overcome fear.
May that love bring you a Happy New Year!
- Ward Hicken 2006
CHRISTMAS GREETINGS OF LOVE
Sired by our loving Father in Heaven,
Reared by a loving mother on earth,
Remembered in the love of the Christmas season,
Is Jesus on this special day of His birth.
His birth was announced to shepherds by angels
With heavenly music that peaceful night,
And to pay homage to Him came "Three Wisemen",
Guided by 'The Star', above all stars, most bright.
As a boy He roamed the little lanes
In hills of Galilee,
And grew "in favor with God and man"
Loving - as only the Son of God could be.
Our hearts are touched by the kindness of Jesus
As He taught the gospel of love.
'Twas said, "He taught not as other men
But as one with authority from above."
When Jesus heard of John's death
He went to a desert place apart.
But the people followed him out of the cities
And from him they would not depart.
When he saw the multitude he was filled with compassion.
He gave comfort to all and healed sick without number.
At evening the disciples said, Master it is late.
Send the people to the village to get food and slumber.
But Jesus said to the concerned disciples,
They need not depart. Give ye them to eat.
They said, We've but five loaves and two small fishes.
He said bring them and have the people take a seat.
Then he blessed the food and brake it in pieces,
And gave it to the disciples to give to all.
All ate til their hunger was satisfied
And left-over fragments into twelve baskets did fall.
And they who had eaten were five thousand men
In addition to wives and children of them.
As the final demonstration of his love for us
He atoned for our sins. On the cross he gave
His life. Then to redeem us from death,
As Son of God, he arose from the grave.
Thanks Jesus, our loving Savior, true,
On thy birthday and always,
May we give our allegiance to you!
-Ward Hicken
Reared by a loving mother on earth,
Remembered in the love of the Christmas season,
Is Jesus on this special day of His birth.
His birth was announced to shepherds by angels
With heavenly music that peaceful night,
And to pay homage to Him came "Three Wisemen",
Guided by 'The Star', above all stars, most bright.
As a boy He roamed the little lanes
In hills of Galilee,
And grew "in favor with God and man"
Loving - as only the Son of God could be.
Our hearts are touched by the kindness of Jesus
As He taught the gospel of love.
'Twas said, "He taught not as other men
But as one with authority from above."
When Jesus heard of John's death
He went to a desert place apart.
But the people followed him out of the cities
And from him they would not depart.
When he saw the multitude he was filled with compassion.
He gave comfort to all and healed sick without number.
At evening the disciples said, Master it is late.
Send the people to the village to get food and slumber.
But Jesus said to the concerned disciples,
They need not depart. Give ye them to eat.
They said, We've but five loaves and two small fishes.
He said bring them and have the people take a seat.
Then he blessed the food and brake it in pieces,
And gave it to the disciples to give to all.
All ate til their hunger was satisfied
And left-over fragments into twelve baskets did fall.
And they who had eaten were five thousand men
In addition to wives and children of them.
As the final demonstration of his love for us
He atoned for our sins. On the cross he gave
His life. Then to redeem us from death,
As Son of God, he arose from the grave.
Thanks Jesus, our loving Savior, true,
On thy birthday and always,
May we give our allegiance to you!
-Ward Hicken
JESUS "THE CHRIST" IN CHRISTMAS
In Nazareth was a virgin fair,
Beautiful above all other virgins.
To her came an angel sent from God
And said "Hail thou that art highly favored,
The Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women."
She wondered at this salutation
So the angel said to her, "Fear not, Mary!
Thou has found favor with God.
Thou shalt conceive in thy womb
And bring forth a son whom thou shalt call, Jesus.
The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee
And the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee.
And that which shall be born of thee
Shall be called the Son of God.
For with God all things are possible."
And the angel appeared to her husband Joseph,
And told him of these things
And Joseph cared for her tenderly.
And when the time came for the birth of the baby
They had traveled from their home to Bethlehem
To be taxed at orders of the Roman governor.
There was no room for them in the inn.
So the baby was born in a stable
And Mary wrapped him in swaddling clothes
And laid him on straw in a manger.
And there were shepherds abiding in their fields
Keeping watch over their flocks by night.
To them came an angel with the glory of God
Who said unto them, "Fear not!
I bring you good tidings of great joy
For unto you is born this day
In the city of David, a savior
Which is Christ the Lord.
This shall be sign to you. Ye shall find the babe
Wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in a manger."
And suddenly there was with the angel
A multitude of heavenly hosts, praising God
And singing, "Glory to God in the highest
And on earth peace and good will toward men."
And the shepherds came and found Joseph and Mary
With the baby lying in a manger.
And when the shepherds had seen all this
They made known abroad the coming of the angel
And the birth of the baby lying in a manager.
And wise men from the East came to Bethlehem
Guided by a new star in the heavens.
They worshiped the baby and gave him
Gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
And warned by God they departed and told not Herod.
The gifts enabled Joseph, who was warned in a dream,
To take Mary and Jesus to Egypt until Herod,
The slaughterer of children, was dead.
Beautiful above all other virgins.
To her came an angel sent from God
And said "Hail thou that art highly favored,
The Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women."
She wondered at this salutation
So the angel said to her, "Fear not, Mary!
Thou has found favor with God.
Thou shalt conceive in thy womb
And bring forth a son whom thou shalt call, Jesus.
The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee
And the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee.
And that which shall be born of thee
Shall be called the Son of God.
For with God all things are possible."
And the angel appeared to her husband Joseph,
And told him of these things
And Joseph cared for her tenderly.
And when the time came for the birth of the baby
They had traveled from their home to Bethlehem
To be taxed at orders of the Roman governor.
There was no room for them in the inn.
So the baby was born in a stable
And Mary wrapped him in swaddling clothes
And laid him on straw in a manger.
And there were shepherds abiding in their fields
Keeping watch over their flocks by night.
To them came an angel with the glory of God
Who said unto them, "Fear not!
I bring you good tidings of great joy
For unto you is born this day
In the city of David, a savior
Which is Christ the Lord.
This shall be sign to you. Ye shall find the babe
Wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in a manger."
And suddenly there was with the angel
A multitude of heavenly hosts, praising God
And singing, "Glory to God in the highest
And on earth peace and good will toward men."
And the shepherds came and found Joseph and Mary
With the baby lying in a manger.
And when the shepherds had seen all this
They made known abroad the coming of the angel
And the birth of the baby lying in a manager.
And wise men from the East came to Bethlehem
Guided by a new star in the heavens.
They worshiped the baby and gave him
Gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
And warned by God they departed and told not Herod.
The gifts enabled Joseph, who was warned in a dream,
To take Mary and Jesus to Egypt until Herod,
The slaughterer of children, was dead.
MOTHERS DAY
We say a prayer on Mothers Day
For the loving mothers we've known.
They are young and old and short and tall,
But "loving" is the description of all.
We pay tribute not only to mothers in fact,
But to women denied a child of their own,
Who have "mothered" other children, with a devotion
That the best of mothers have shown.
We acknowledge the refining influence of women
To bring beauty, culture and kindness to the home
And community, but most of all we appreciate,
The way they bring happiness to the home.
We appreciate all that they do for us,
Love and service they give to us, and others.
There may be many benefits in our houses,
But no houses are home without Mothers.
A house may be filled with conveniences,
Souvenirs from places we roam,
Gear for hobbies , interests and treasures,
But it"s Mother- that makes it "Home Sweet Home".
-Ward Hicken
For the loving mothers we've known.
They are young and old and short and tall,
But "loving" is the description of all.
We pay tribute not only to mothers in fact,
But to women denied a child of their own,
Who have "mothered" other children, with a devotion
That the best of mothers have shown.
We acknowledge the refining influence of women
To bring beauty, culture and kindness to the home
And community, but most of all we appreciate,
The way they bring happiness to the home.
We appreciate all that they do for us,
Love and service they give to us, and others.
There may be many benefits in our houses,
But no houses are home without Mothers.
A house may be filled with conveniences,
Souvenirs from places we roam,
Gear for hobbies , interests and treasures,
But it"s Mother- that makes it "Home Sweet Home".
-Ward Hicken
A TRIBUTE TO MOTHERS ON MOTHERS DAY
"Most precious of all good gifts,
Is the gift of a loving mother."*
Her patience, kindness, anxiety, concern,
Will never be lavished by another.
Her unselfish efforts, her sacrifices,
Her devoted service to husband and family,
Her home-making talents and refining influence
Are innate parts of her personality.
God said, "My work and my glory
Are to bring to pass
The immortality and
The eternal life of man."
To accomplish these purposes God entrusted to Mothers,
With their instinctive, God-given, nurturing love,
The bearing and formative-year training of children
And not to selfish, impatient, insensitive men.
A good Mother shapes sons' destiny.
Napoleon said, "If France will have
Good Mothers-then good sons
France will surely have."
Lincoln said, "All that I am
Or ever hope to be
I owe to my angel Mother."
And the love she gave to me.
It is generally admitted and frequently proved
That genius and good qualities men possess
Can be traced to their Mothers' training.
To their Mothers, men owe their success!
"The future of society is in the hands of Mothers."*
For solving problems of society,
"An ounce of 'Mother' will do better than
The efforts of a pound of clergy"*
Or a ton of politicians can.
May all Mothers and future Mothers maintain
The incomparable reputation so many Mothers have acquired
And may husbands and children appreciate and help them!
And realize - that Mothers also get tired.
-Ward Hicken
*Macaulay
*deBeufort
*Spanish Proverb
Is the gift of a loving mother."*
Her patience, kindness, anxiety, concern,
Will never be lavished by another.
Her unselfish efforts, her sacrifices,
Her devoted service to husband and family,
Her home-making talents and refining influence
Are innate parts of her personality.
God said, "My work and my glory
Are to bring to pass
The immortality and
The eternal life of man."
To accomplish these purposes God entrusted to Mothers,
With their instinctive, God-given, nurturing love,
The bearing and formative-year training of children
And not to selfish, impatient, insensitive men.
A good Mother shapes sons' destiny.
Napoleon said, "If France will have
Good Mothers-then good sons
France will surely have."
Lincoln said, "All that I am
Or ever hope to be
I owe to my angel Mother."
And the love she gave to me.
It is generally admitted and frequently proved
That genius and good qualities men possess
Can be traced to their Mothers' training.
To their Mothers, men owe their success!
"The future of society is in the hands of Mothers."*
For solving problems of society,
"An ounce of 'Mother' will do better than
The efforts of a pound of clergy"*
Or a ton of politicians can.
May all Mothers and future Mothers maintain
The incomparable reputation so many Mothers have acquired
And may husbands and children appreciate and help them!
And realize - that Mothers also get tired.
-Ward Hicken
*Macaulay
*deBeufort
*Spanish Proverb
THANKSGIVING
"THANKSGIVING" is a special day
In this "land choice above all others"
When we thank God for all our blessings,
Enjoy family dinner with parents, sisters and brothers.
We're thankful for laws that protect our freedom
And opportunities to come and go as we choose
And express our opinions and live our religion
And hear uncensored news.
We're thankful for the beauties
Of mountains, valleys and plains,
And rivers and lakes and coastal seas
And flowers and grass and forests and trees.
We're thankful for prosperity,
An abundance of material things,
But most of all we're thankful for:
The benefits the gospel brings.
A purpose in life, a happy way of living,
Plans for combining and accomplishing these.
Knowledge, programs, instructions, advisors,
Friends and rewarding, enjoyable opportunities.
Thank you, Father in Heaven.
Thanks Jesus and Holy Ghost too,
For all thy helpful instructions
And the blessings that we receive from you.
-Ward Hicken
In this "land choice above all others"
When we thank God for all our blessings,
Enjoy family dinner with parents, sisters and brothers.
We're thankful for laws that protect our freedom
And opportunities to come and go as we choose
And express our opinions and live our religion
And hear uncensored news.
We're thankful for the beauties
Of mountains, valleys and plains,
And rivers and lakes and coastal seas
And flowers and grass and forests and trees.
We're thankful for prosperity,
An abundance of material things,
But most of all we're thankful for:
The benefits the gospel brings.
A purpose in life, a happy way of living,
Plans for combining and accomplishing these.
Knowledge, programs, instructions, advisors,
Friends and rewarding, enjoyable opportunities.
Thank you, Father in Heaven.
Thanks Jesus and Holy Ghost too,
For all thy helpful instructions
And the blessings that we receive from you.
-Ward Hicken
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