ZUmmmS^-'
r*i*vF ^ ^- *!"''# *C:^ J
JANUARY, 1943 VOL. 30 NO. 1 LESSONS FOR APRIL
RELIEF SOCIETY
Centennial Personal Souvenirs
MAKE APPROPRIATE GIFTS
Gift Cards Included When Requested
;23fl»^ 5»^ > "^*^ s
'*'^4Sft'!sr*^-'"
CENTENNIAL COMMEMORATIVE PLATE
This pottery plate, IOV2 inches in diameter, depicts the first Relief Society meeting held in Nauvoo, March 17, 1842. Brown is the predominating color of the design on this beautiful ivory plate, with costumes in a variety of colors. The plate is bordered with gold-colored wheat heads. The inscription on the back gives information as to the organization, scope, and purposes of Relief Society. Price $1.50. postpaid.
OFFICIAL RELIEF SOCIETY PIN
No. 1 Pin of blue baked French hard enamel and 24 carat gold-plated. Price $1.10, postpaid.
No. 2 Pin of blue baked French hard enamel and 10 carat solid-gold front gold filled, with 24 carat gold-plated back. Price $1.80, postpaid.
Both pins are identical as to design, size, and coloring. Although issued as a feature of the centennial year, this pin bears only the organization date, 1842, and will therefore be appropriate for use after the centennial. These prices include Federal excise tax.
OUR LEGACY REUEF SOCIETY CENTENNIAL ANTHOLOGY OF VERSE
This 329-page book contains poems selected from the writings of Latter-day Saint women from 1835 to 1942, including all the prize poems designated in the annual Eliza Roxey Snow Memorial Poem contest. The relatives of those whose poems are included in this anthology will be especially interested. Price $1.50. postpaid.
A CENTENARY OF RELIEF SOCIETY
A panorama of Relief Society's first hundred years in picture and story, containing much material heretofore unpublished.
Bound in a blue paper book cover, with its title "A Centenary of Relief Society" and the centennial insignia beautifully embossed in gold.
96 pages, size 9x12 inches. Over 500 pictures of historical interest. The price of the book has been kept as low as possible — 50 cents per copy, postpaid— whether single copies or quantity lots are ordered.
Orders cannot be accepted without the remittance of 50 cents per copy. A special gift card will be sent with all copies of the book designated as gifts. Order from your ward Relief Society Magazine representative or direct from the General Board.
■ ^ ■
All articles listed above are obtainable only from General Board of Relief Society. 28 Bishop's Building, Salt Lake City.
The Relief Society Magazine
Monthly Publication of the Relief Society of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
RELIEF SOCIETY GENERAL BOARD
Amy Brown Lyman Marcia K. Howells Belle S. Spai.ord Vera W. Pohlman
Donna D. Sorensen Vivian R. McConkie Leda T. Jensen Rae B. Barker Nellie O. Parker
Editor
Acting Business Manager
Anna S. Barlow Achsa E. Paxman Mary G. Judd Luella N. Adams Marianne C. Sharp
RELIEF SOCIETY
Anna B. Hart Gertrude R. Garff Leona F. Wintch Edith S. Elliott Pauline T. Pingree
MAGAZINE
President
First Counselor
Second Counselor
Secretary-Treasurer
Alice B. Castleton Priscilla L. Evans Florence J. Madsen Ann P. Nibley
Belle S. Spafford Amy Brown Lyman
Vol. 30
JANUARY, 1943
No. 1
SPECIAL FEATURES
Snowflakes — Ruth H. Chadwick Back of Frontispiece
Winter Scene Frontispiece
Messages for the New Year — Relief Society General Board Members 5
Award Winners — Eliza R. Snow Memorial Poem Contest 11
Award Winners — Annual Short Story Contest 16
Psychological Warfare Mark K. Allen 23
Little Stones that Change the Course of Rivers Leila M. Hoggan 27
Woman's Sphere Romona W. Cannon 34
Point Rationing Justin C. Stewart 46
FICTION
All That Glitters— First Prize Short Story Contest Norma Wrathall 17
Justice is a Group Affair Eva Willes Wangsgaard 29
GENERAL FEATURES
Editorial: A New Heart and a New Spirit Marianne C. Sharp 35
Notes To The Field: Leaflets on Health, Nursing, etc 36
Petitions on Informative Labeling 38
Suggestive Program for March 7, 1943 1 38
"Leads For Class Leaders" Delayed 42
Elder Stephen L Richards' Lectures 42
Message of First Presidency 43
New Book — "Recreation in the Home" 43
Mormon Handicraft Shop 44
Auxiliaries Protest Smoking 44
Notes From the Field Vera White Pohlman, General Secretary-Treasurer 48
LESSONS
Theology and Testimony — Book of Mormon 57
61
64
69
72
Visiting Teachers' — Care of the Body as an Expression of Faith. Work-and-Business — Clean Things Last Longer
Literature — Great Bible Personalities
Social Science — Growth of Political Parties
General Presidents — Louise Y. Robison
POETRY
Snowflakes — Ruth H. Chadwick Back of Frontispiece
Your Heritage — First Prize, Poem Contest Dott J. Sartori 12
While the Earth Turns — Second Prize, Poem Contest Beatrice K. Ekman 13
Symphony of the Snow — Third Prize, Poem Contest L.nda S. Fletcher 14
Beyond This Night Linnie Fisher Robinson 22
This Night Mabel Jones Gabbott 76
PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY THE GENERAL BOARD OF RELIEF SOCIETY
Editorial and Business Offices: 28 Bishop's Building, Salt Lake City, Utah, Phone 3-2741, Ex. 243. Subscription Price: $1.00 a year; foreign, $1.00 a year; payable in advance. Single copy, 10c. The Magazine is not sent after subscription expires. Renew promptly so that no copiesi will be missed. Report change of address at once, giving both old and new address.
Entered as second-class matter February 18, 1914, at the Post Office, Salt Lake City, Utah, under the Act of March o, 1879. Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in section 1103, Act of October 8, 1917, authorized June 29, 1918. Stamps should accompany manu- scripts for their return.
MAGAZINE CIRCULATION 57,000
Snowfianes
Ruth H. Chadwick
Swirling and dancing, gossamer wings, Tangible fairies garnish the earth. Shimmering white, they wrap round her breast Festoons of pearls, add trimmings of worth. Lace so exquisite scallops her gown; Sparklets and plumes embellish her crown.
~*f '^nffiin «t<M?m ' miWtillgfcwW^ffri »fcmim| i» ^t
Orf^l
©©nsmr
VOL. 30, NO. 1
MAGAZINE
JANUARY 1943
Messages for the New Year
Fwm Members of the Relief Society General Board
I
T has been said that nobody worries about Christ and His teachings so long as they are kept shut up in the churches, but that there is always trouble and perplexity if you try to bring them out.
As the new year is ushered in and the second century of Relief Societ}' begins, let us as members of this great humanitarian organization resolve to do our part in bringing forward the teachings of the Master, in applying them in our lives, and in advocating them to our fellow men, thus contribut- ing to the establishment of the kingdom of God on earth.
Piesident Amy Biown Lyman
^^TN Thee, O Lord, do I put my trust;" (Psalm 31:1).
Shall we now, as daughters of our Heavenly Father, rededicate our lives to His work? Nothing we do in His service can be too well or too beautifully done. His spirit, as our constant companion, is our greatest need. It is a privilege to work in His vineyard in any capacity.
We were given the Relief Society organization by a prophet of God. Activity in this Church auxiliary helps us to go forward with gratitude in our hearts for our privileges and blessings. May salvation and eternal life
crown our earnest efforts.
Counselor Marcia K. Howells
TT is a great blessing to face life with a testimony of the truthfulness of the
Gospel— to know that God lives, that life has purpose and direction, and
that the relationships of friends and loved ones v^all continue beyond this
The work of Relief Society strengthens testimonies and provides abundant opportunity for the application of Gospel principles. Fortunate,
Page 5
6 RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
indeed, are women who are identified with this Society, either as members or as officers.
May the experiences of the new year deepen our insight, increase our understanding, and add to our desire to serve our Father and our fellow men.
Counselor Belle S. SpaRoid
T ASTING world peace can be established only through the brotherhood of man, a state of fellow feeling which harbors neither national nor racial prejudices. Relief Society is making its contribution toward this goal. This sisterhood includes women who are of the black, brown, yellow, red, and white races, and citizens of more than a score of nations. Yet each of these is ''sister" to all other members of the Society, and all are striving to better understand and live according to the principles of the Gospel of Jesus Christ— the sure path to individual and universal peace.
Genera] Secretary-Treasurer Vera W. Pohlman
"lATITH almost global war, every member of most families is feeling the impact. Restlessness, adapting to new work, adjusting to a loved one's
absence, restricted movements, insecurity, all play their part in intensifying
the role that the home needs to play.
Changing conditions bring different opportunities to women. Tlie
woman of faith and sweet spirit can make her home a haven of comfort in
times of trouble.
The family prayers, the spoken ' acceptance of our Heavenly Father
as the guardian of all, the understanding heart, the love transformed into
service— the memories of these will fortify our families in the battle for
present-day existence.
Donna D. Soiensen
J DESIRE an abiding faith in the Lord, sufficient to sustain and succor me. What I yearn for, I wish for you. The new year, 1943, will be a year fraught with anxieties, but those who trust in the Lord will be assuaged. Present events help us realize how dependent we are upon Him. Pause and think deeply and have hope and vision for your needs. Faith and vision become strong and clear, and sustain those who keep the command- ments of the Lord. ''They who have faith in Him will cleave unto every good thing." May you have peace surpassing understanding, is my earnest desire.
Vivian R. McConkie
OELIEF SOCIETY is beginning a new year in a new century with the world perilously threatened by the holocaust of evil forces. When we see the human misery and the destruction which follow in the wake of these forces, it makes us feel the preciousness of good; of God's great laws for living together in love. It makes us appreciate our heritage— a sustain-
MESSAGES FOR THE NEW YEAR 7
ing faith and the opportunity for organized work ni the cause of human uphft.
Let us rededicate ourselves to the noble purposes of Relief Society and help bring to the world a charity which is the true love of Christ.
Ndlic O. Parker
^^ A MAN is at his finest toward the finish of the year;
He is almost what he should be, when the Christmas season's here; He is less a selfish creature than at anv other time; When the Christmas spirit rules him, he comes close to the sublime."
Our faith strikes the proper balance between the material and the spiritual forces of life. You have exemphfied this thought through your belief in religious principles combined with the doing of noble service.
May 1943 bring joys that will remain long in your memory, and may high achievement reward your efforts throughout the new year.
Achsa E. Paxman
'HPO my sisters of the Relief Society— particularly those who, like myself,
have sons in the armed forces of our country— I send this message: Be
of good cheer. Your Heavenly Father loves you and will he mindiul oi you.
Mary Grant /udd
/GREETINGS and best wishes to you noble Relief Society women— you who will be quietly and faithfully performing the tasks that each day
of the new year brings.
In these days of confusion and trouble, you Latter-day Saint women
are blessed above all others in the world. You have an anchor in your
knowledge and testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Hold fast to this precious anchor and you will continue to be sustained and blessed by your Heavenly Father.
Luella N. Adams
nPHIS is a day of sorrow upon the earth. As Latter-day Saints, however, we know that we are privileged to be permitted to live during this great Dispensation of the Fullness of Times. We realize that the righteous must suffer with the wicked, but that "Those that die in me shall not taste of death, for it shall be sweet unto them."
At this Christmastide let us, as Relief Society members, fill our souls with love for Him who was "a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief." Let us rejoice "because he hath poured out his soul unto death" whereby we mav all partake of a glorious resurrection.
Marianne C. Sharp
^^pLORY to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."
8 RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
I'hc most soul-satisfying experiences we have in life, especially during these troubled times, are the efforts we make to live the Gospel of Jesus Christ. May this season of His birth bring to each member of Relief Society in all the world a strong and abiding testimony of the mission of our Savior, so that no matter what vicissitudes of life touch us from the outside, within we may have that peace which comes from good will toward men.
Leda T. Jensen
AT the beginning of another year, in a new century for Relief Society, I pray earnestly for Latter-day Saint women everywhere that by the power of the Holy Spirit each may see her course clearly; that each shall do her work with wisdom and in kindness; that each shall be strong and unafraid, preparing herself through faith and knowledge to meet every day in the new year and every situation ahead with serenity and peace of soul.
'Tor they that have received the truth . . . and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived . . . shall abide the day." (Doctrine and Covenants 45:57)
Rae B. Barker
^^npHESE things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace."
In these days of world-wide distress, how grateful we should be for the Gospel of Jesus Christ and for our testimonies of its truthfulness. TThe mission of the Savior was one of peace and love,: and it is through the application of His teachings in our lives that we can meet the problems of this day v^th courage.
Christ's message is expressed in the spirit and character of Relief So- ciety. To be identified with this organization is a blessing.
Let us help to further this great cause, ''that in Him we may have peace."
Anna S. Barlow
npHIS is the birth of a new year and of a new Relief Society^ century! The stress of the present stirs us to super accomplishment. The achievement of the past has made us feel our powers. The prophetic urge for organiza- tion a century ago is a hundredfold today.
May we look forward with the enthusiasm and dreams of youth, but with vision. May we face the new century as we face a new day. May our lives radiate fortitude and inner peace, that we may help bring universal love to the world. This is the birth of a new century for Relief Society. What a challenge to us!
Anna Boss Hart
MESSAGES FOR THE NEW YEAR 9
^^OLMSSED is he that is faithful in tribulation, the reward of the same is greater in the kingdom of heaven, lor after much tribulation eonie the blessings." *
Let us as Rehef Societ}' members be comforted b) these words of our Lord. For even though the past year has literally been a year of tribulation, we as Latter-day Saints have a great many blessings for which to be thankful.
May we enter this new year with hope in our hearts and a prayer on our lips that we may so live as to be wortln of the blessings promised to the faithful.
Gertrude R. Garfl^
pVEN though Relief Society women have been hca\ily burdened bv thick, dark forces, they have not lost their way. Thcv dream dreams and see the vision of a new morning, and a spring come again; their faith is ever fresh.
Not necessarily the great or the strong, but the seemingly unimportant women among us are spreading blessings, making small things worthy of eternal remembrance. Theirs is a healing virtue in toil and trouble. Truly their outlook is wider and deeper than the number of years lived or the accumulation of encumbering goods. May our Heavenlv Father continue to bless the daughters of Zion.
Leona F. Wiiitch
'T^O all of my Relief Society sisters I send greetings, and hope the new year will bring all that your hearts desire in righteousness.
Edith Smith EUiott
AT the beginning of another century of Relief Society, I desire to express my love and appreciation to all the wonderful women who have ser\'ed so loyally in this organization. May you continue to feel that it is a privilege to live, to work, to sacrifice, to endure, to love; and may you realize that you are instruments in God's kingdom in helping to work out Mis purposes among men.
If you continue faithful, the peace of God which passeth all under- standing will be yours; moreover, each of you will be capable of making the circle in which you live better and happier.
Pauline T. Pingiee
AT the beginning of this new year our love and prayers go out to our 115,000 Relief Society members.
May God's choicest blessings attend you during the coming year and always.
M
10 RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
Whatever the future holds, may you be true to the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, and may you have the courage, fortitude, and determination to live righteously.
By being members of the Church, you are heirs to a precious heritage, and by keeping the commandments of God and conforming to the Gospel teachings and by consecrating your lives to the work of the Lord, you are entitled to life eternal, the Divine gift to mankind.
Alice B.Castleton
Y w^ish for you, my dear sisters, is that the Christmas just passed will be remembered as a happy one and that blessings may attend you in the new^ year.
To those homes saddened by the loss of loved ones, may our Heavenly Father send comfort and consolation; to firesides w^here parents, wives, or other beloved ones are bravely carrying on with anxiety in their hearts, may He send patience and faith; and to homes blessed with the laughter of happy children may He send Flis spirit to protect the household and to guide those who there reside, that loyalty and courage and kindness may reign therein.
Piiscilh L. Evans
i^npAKE from out the Old Year only the experiences and achievements that will enrich and make for a better New Year."
A hundred years of valuable experiences have contributed to the dynamic strength and power of our great Relief Society organization.
. As the new year approaches, let us greet every day with unfaltering step, with a prayer in our hearts and a song on our lips, with courage and with faith in the fulfillment of the Divine promise that:
'If with all your hearts ye truly seek me, ye shall ever surely find me. Thus saith our God."
Florence Jeppeison Madsen
T SEND my love and new year's greetings to the members of Relief Society. For many months we have lived in the midst of a world at war, and of necessity we have had to readjust our lives to varied and changing con- ditions. More than ever before, I believe, we should exert every effort to live our religion and keep the commandments of the Lord. If we do this, we will merit His protection and blessings, and then, whatever the future may hold for us, it will be according to His will.
My prayers and good wishes are for your welfare and happiness.
Ann P. Nihley
Jn^Vi^ard vi/i
inners
ibiiza LKoxey Snow if lemorial [Prize cPoem Contest
'T^HE Relief Society General Board is pleased to announce the names ( f the three prize winners in the 1942 Eliza R. Snow Memorial Prize Poem Contest. This contest was an- nounced in the August 1942 issue of the Magazine and closed October 15, 1942.
The first prize of $15 is awarded to Dott J. Sartori, 3388 So. 9th East, Salt Lake City, for her poem 'Tour Heritage."
The second prize of $10 is award- ed to Beatrice K. Ekman, 287 Eighth Ave., Salt Lake City, for her poem "While the Earth Turns."
The third prize of $5 is awarded to Linda S. Fletcher, Apt. 320 - 20th So. York Street, Denver, Colo., for her poem ''Symphony of the Snow."
This poem contest has been con- ducted annually by the Relief So- ciety General Board since 1923 in honor of Eliza R. Snow, second general president of Relief Society and a very gifted poet.
The contest is open to all Latter- day Saint women and is designed to encourage poetry writing and to in- crease appreciation for creative writ- ing and the beauty and value of
poetic verse. Prize-winning poems are the property of the Relief Society General Board and may not be used for publication by others except up- on written permission from the Gen- eral Board. The General Board re- serves the right to publish any of the other poems submitted, paying for them at the time of publication at the regular Magazine rate. A writer who has received the first prize for two consecutive years must wait two years before she is again eligible to enter the contest.
There were 63 poems submitted in this year's contest. The General Board congratulates the prize win- ners and expresses appreciation to all entrants for their interest in the con- test and the general excellence of work submitted.
The Board sincerely thanks the three judges for their valuable assist- ance in selecting the prize-winning poems. The contribution of the General Board's poem committee is also greatly appreciated.
The prize-winning poems, to- gether with photographs of two of the prize-winning contestants, are published herewith. The photo- graph of Linda S. Fletcher, winner of third prize, was unavailable.
Page
[Prize- vi/inning [Poems
ibiiza Lrioxei/ Snow 1 1 iemonal LPrize [Poem Looniest
oxey
DOl 1 J. SARTORI
BEATRICE KNOWLTON EKMAN
V'
our uientage
Dott /. Saitoii Fiist Prize
Here is a heritage, my new-born son: You have the blood of heroes in your veins. A thousand thousand threads of Hves, once hved, Are passed and plaited into living skeins That merge through all the centuries in you. Your father's fire, his father's high unrest Crimson your arterial stream and gauge Your vision, set your span and depth of chest.
And all the giants, ax in hand, who swung Down purple aisles of forest, all the brave Who pitted wit and brawn against their foes. Who loved and courted and conceived and gave Life out of life, have stored their powers in you.
Page 12
PRIZE-WINNING POEMS
n
Through unrecorded eras, dark and still, Remember, the stout of spirit, conquerors Of life and love shall fabricate your will.
Perhaps a valiant Joshua will blow
His mighty trumpets in your soul, my son.
Or Moses speak in your integrity,
Or Joseph's and your purity be one.
Some faithful heart that knew the miracle
At the parting of the Jordan, beats in yours.
In your foot sandled ancestors will stand
Once more against the old conspirators.
^
vi/hile the (barth c/urns
Beatrice KnowJton Ekman
Second Piize
I
The canyon's clefted walls are torched with flame
Of maple— scarlet vying sumach-red;
The yellowed cottonwoods and alders frame
The creek and swale. In silence overhead
Swift-moving banks of gray mingle with mist
That veils the hills with mauve and amethyst.
The quaking aspens hold their branches high
And tinkle castanets in lullaby.
The scarlet and the yellow leaves will fall
To rust beneath the drip of slanting rain.
While hill-pines to the soughing ridge-pines call.
To seek the sheltering evergreens again.
Furred creatures under bare, bleak trees will go.
Their footprints etched in moonlight on the snow.
II
The dirt road rims the mountainside; The creek makes murmurings below Where over rocks, cool waters glide Tumbling in white and crystal flow. The skies are cupped in sober gray On kneeling hills of camel-brown
14 RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
And on blue summits far away
Winter has laid white sandals down.
After the night of cleansing rain
The mountain trees stand still and stark,
The old trails beckoning in vain
Up through the groves of silver bark.
With somberncss of earth and sky
November days are set apart—
I hear a late bird's lonely cry
And grief unbidden stirs my heart.
Ill
The fields we loved to wander through Have faded to a graver hue, And where we watched the barley blow Red pheasants glean the stubble row. Unfettered from the sloping hill, Where painted trees their crimson spill, The tumbleweeds come marshaling down The hillside road that runs to town. Through long uncharted lanes of sky Wild geese in patterned wedges fly. And wheeling earth brings dark— brings dawn- Only my heart knows you are gone.
^
Symphony of the Snow
Linda S. Fletchei
Thiid Prize
Allegro
Artists' hands have opened up,
And floating from them down to earth
Comes Pavlova, with her ballet,
In a dainty dance of mirth.
Swirling, whirling on tiptoe.
Silent as the stars' chorale,
Sylphs glide on, to strains unheard—
The melody of gay snowfall.
AUegretto
On they pass; the tempo now Changes, while Cellinis trim The set— mold ghostly Spring
PRIZE-WINNING POEMS I5
On trees. A-down waft seraphim With jeweled coverlet to veil A man-scarred world from scrutiny Of Heaven's face— thus hide, awhile, A desolating agony.
Andante
For a brief moment earth again
Knows Eden— innocence and peace;
The heapcd-up mounds consigned to dust
Are covered o'er; the clangors cease.
In the white sky an unseen host
Joins in a requiem sublime
To mark the groaning world's travail
On the Eternal's tome of time.
Coda
Earth soon will know the end of woe,
When clad in amaranthine bloom,
Her purity like to the snow.
She ne'er again will hold a tomb!
^
EXCERPT FROM ''HOW CLIMATE MAKES THE MAN"
". . . People in the tropics seldom wear out or break down; thev die largely from infectious and parasitic diseases.
"In temperate coolness it is a breakdown in our combustion machiner\' which is bringing greatest worry' to the medical profession. This involves particularly the heart and blood vessels, since on them falls the direct load of transporting food and oxygen to the body tissues and of removing the waste products and useless heat. Heart failure is predominantly a problem of cool climates.
''Energetic Northerners thus should regard stress of life as a major danger and health hazard, especially after passing the fort}'-year mark. Thev should be careful about increasing the stress upon body machinery by lack of proper sleep and relaxation or through the use of caffeine which makes ever}' tissue in the body work harder. I personally feel that over- use of this drug (the active principle of coffee, tea, and cola bc\erages) is todav doing more damage among the active Americans of middle temperate latitudes than any other single factor in life. Over-use of tobacco probably runs a close second."
From a General Electric 'Science Forum" Program, reprinted from Science Digest.
Jtv^ard vi/i'.
Annual Relief Society
'pHE Relief Society General Board is pleased to announce the names of the award winners in the short story contest which was an- nounced in the August 1942 issue of The Relief Society Magazine and which closed November 15, 1942.
The first prize of $25 is awarded to Norma Wrathall, Grantsville, Utah, for her story "All That Glitters."
The second prize of $20 is awarded to Blanche Kendall McKey, 2821 Porter Ave., Ogden, Utah, for her story "Silent Strings."
The third prize of $15 is awarded to Mary Ek Knowles, 1025 Darling St., Og- den, Utah, for her story "The Gold Watch."
This short story contest, first con- ducted by the Relief Society Gen- eral Board in 1941 as a feature of the centennial observance, was made an annual contest in 1942 inasmuch as the centennial short story contest had been so enthusiastically received and inasmuch as sponsorship of story writing is of equal importance to that of poetry writing in which the Board conducts a contest annually. The contest is open only to Latter- day Saint women who have had at least one literary composition pub- lished or accepted for publication by the editor of a publication of recognized merit.
The three prize-winning stories are to be published consecutively in the first three issues of the Magazine for 1943. Pirze-winning stories become the property of the General Board and mav not be published by others except bv written permission from the General Board. The General Board reserves the right to publish any of the other stories entered in the contest, paying for them at the regular Magazine rate at the time of
Pgae 16
tnners
Short Story Contest
publication. A writer who has re- ceived first prize for two consecutive vears must wait two vears before she is again eligible to enter the contest.
Twenty-one manuscripts were sub- mitted in the contest for 1942. While some of these failed to qualify as short stories, being sketches rather than short stories, and while others showed a lack of consistencv be- tween incidents related in the story and the time and setting of the story, all work entered in the contest re- vealed writing ability.
The General Board congratulates the prize-winning contestants and expresses appreciation to all whose work was entered in the contest. The number of manuscripts and the type of work submitted during the first two years of the short story con- test are very encouraging and indi- cate that, like the Eliza R. Snow poem contest, the short story con- test will become one of the impor- tant activities sponsored by the Gen- eral Board, and through this activity high quality fiction-writing among Latter-day Saint women will be stimulated.
The General Board sincerely thanks the five judges for their care- ful consideration of the stories and for the excellence of their judgment in selecting the prize winners. The services of the General Board's short story contest committee are also greatly appreciated.
Stories, together with photographs of the award-winning contestants, will appear in the Relief Society Magazine as follows: January, 1943, "All That Glitters," hy Norma Wrathall; February 1943, "'Silent Strings," bv Blanche Kendall McKe\'; March 1943', "The Gold \\'atch." by Mary Ek Knowles.
JxU Qjhat (flitters
Noima Wiathall First Prize
Jxnnual [Kelief Societii Short Story Contest
4 4 TY/" ANTED: At once. Wom- Y^ en between ages 18 and 40 to work in war plant cafeteria. Wages, $80 per month. Transportation and one meal fur- nished. Apply at . . ."
The newspaper slid from Emily Merrill's hand: "Wanted ... $80 per
month '' Her eyes sought out the
worn linoleum, the scuffed chairs, the kitchen curtains, which in spite of frequent laundering refused to stay crisp. She looked down at her thin red hands, idle for once in her lap. How long had it been since she had had money to buy anything she really wanted? Somehow it had taken all they could scrape from the farm to meet expenses and make pay- ments on the mortgage. She sighed. Of course. Jack was working at the plant himself, but he said that every cent they didn't have to use on abso- lute necessities must go on the debt; now was his chance to *'get out from under" as he put it. Well, all the more reason she should earn a little. She folded the ad page and put it carefully in the cupboard drawer. Why it was wonderful, that's what it was; it was her golden opportunity. She hummed a tune as she prepared the evening meal.
By the time the family was assem- bled around the supper table, a defi- nite plan had taken form in her mind, but she waited until Jack had finished eating before she said any- thing. ''Never try to convince a man whose stomach is empty," her grand-
NORMA WRATHALL
mother had always said. Besides, Jack always read the paper at the meal table.
At last he finished his dessert and put down the paper. Emily drew a deep breath, pushed her hair back of her ears, and began.
"I don't like it," Jack pronounced emphatically, as she paused for an- other breath. '*! don't want my wife running around in any workman's cafeteria, waiting on a lot of foreign- ers and. . . ."
Emily was prepared for opposition, but before she could say anything more, sixteen-year-old Etta inter- Page 17
18 RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
rupted: ''Don't be so old-fashioned, family to be prepared the night be-
Dad. All the women are working fore; a hot, cooked dinner in the
nowadays. A woman's place isn't evening after she came home from
just in the home any more, you work. She could do the washing and
know." ironing and clean the house on her
He drew his brows together at her day off. Really, it all seemed so sim- condescending tone. This red-headed pie. Even Aunt Bessie's lack of en- daughter of his certainly needed her thusiasm failed to dampen her spirits, come-uppance for a change. "It would be different if you had to
Emily rose hastily to pour oil on work, Emily," Aunt Bessie said. "If
the troubled waters. How alike they that were the case, I'd move right
were, ready to flare at the drop of a in and help you, if necessary. But
match, her sandy-haired husband I should think that with Jack work-
with his threatening brows, and the ing .... Well," she sighed, "all I
girl with her head on one side, star- hope is that I don't have one of my
ing back at him from under impu- headaches on the days the children
dently lowered eyelids. are here." She shook her head dole-
"Of course, Etta, a mother's first fully and went on, as Emily thought,
duty is to her family," Emily said "making mountains from molehills."
quietly, "but I'm sure I can manage I^MILY would never forget the day
home and job too, right now; the '-^ she brought home her first pay
twins are getting older, and you can check. She sat down and kicked off
help with the housework." She was her shoes to ease her burning feet
a quiet-mannered woman, with dark while she tore open the envelope,
hair and soft brown eyes which be- Let's see— new linoleum should be
lied the inner strength her husband the first thing to buy, and some crisp
had been heard to call stubbornness, new curtains. And she did want to
By the time she had finished packing make a down payment on bed divan
his lunch box, with Etta safely out for the living room. That old couch
of the way on an errand at the drug was such an eyesore,
store, she had won his consent to her Her pleasant reverie was broken
plan. as the screen door banged, and
The children were in school all the twins came bouncing into the
day, and by carefully planning her room. "Hi there, mom," cried Billy,
work, she thought she could manage "isn't supper ready yet? Gee whiz,
it. She would arrange for the nine- am I starved!" Billy was always hun-
year-old twins, Billy and Betty, to gry. He grabbed a piece of baker's
stay after school with Great-aunt bread from the box and stuffed it
Bessie, a childless widow who had into his mouth,
always been fond of them. And "Not so much slang, dear. Yes,
Etta could take care of herself, and I'll have it ready in a few minutes."
do a good share of the housework. Little needles shot up the backs of
Emily's agile mind swept on to the her legs as she bent her energy to the
systematic planning of her day's task. Goodness, it was getting late,
work: the breakfast to be cooked ''Say, mom," called Betty from the
early, and served to the children later bathroom, where she was washing
by Etta; the lunches for the entire her hands, "Aunt Bessie said to tell
ALL THAT GLITTERS 19
you, of course we're welcome to stay dance act for assembly. Meryl's so
there, but Billy'd have to do better, talented." She turned around, exe-
Know what he did?" She pointed an cuting a dance step. ''Meryl Sisom.
accusing soapy finger. "He put two You know. Mother."
toads in Aunt Bessie's goldfish bowl "Some new people who just moved
—right in with the fish. 'Magine!" into town. They live over in the old
Betty set her lips self-ri^hteously, Jacobs' home," explained Emily.
'Tah, an' what if I did, ole Miss Jack grunted. "Humph. Well,
Smarty! And mom, know what she you see that you bring Meryl or who-
did?" Billy's voice was loud with ever she is over here to practice so
scorn. "Kept coming in the house you can help a little. And that's
with her rollerskates on— right on final!" He brought his fist down on
the lineoleum Aunt Bessie'd just the table with a bang,
waxed. She said . . . . " "Oh, all right," Etta pouted. "Mr.
"Oh, children, stop it. Mother's Sisom makes simply scads of money,"
too tired tonight. And Billy, get she went on, with a side glance at her
the broom and sweep up all that mud father. "Meryl has awfully smart
you dragged in. Betty, help mother clothes. She's getting a new chubby
set the table. And put away your fur jacket. Wish I could," she sighed
school things. Oh, dear, Etta's not volubly.
home from school yet, and it's nearly Jack paddled off to the living room
six." Her voice rose in strident irri- in his stocking feet to finish his nap,
tation. She found herself wonder- muttering that the money some peo-
ing, a little grimly, if Aunt Bessie pie were spending was ridiculous, and
still could be heard to wish piously Emily began clearing the table,
that the Almighty had seen fit to "Maybe we can manage the jacket
bless her with a family. later on," she said to Etta who was
They were half way through sup- helping. "Now hurry, dear, you'll be
per by the time Etta came in, tossing late for Mutual. It's Tuesday night,
her sweater over a chair. Emily you know."
looked fondly at her daughter whose "Oh, I'm not going tonight," re- red-gold hair framed a piquant face plied Etta, "Meryl doesnt want to with dancing brown eyes. Etta went join. She says the things they do at once to the kitchen mirror and at Mutual are childish." began a careful inspection of her , , . , -, ^ complexion. A^ *^^ weeks hurried on and the
"WhereVe you been, Etta?" asked tag ends of work from even Em- ber father, abruptly emerging from ily's careful planning began to pile his newspaper. up, she tried to grow accustomed to
''Over to Meryl's," answered Etta, the lint which accumulated under
patting her curls. "I ate supper over the beds from her one "free day" a
l-here." week to the next. She trained her-
• "You're supposed to be home self not to notice the pile of mending
when your mother comes. You which grew steadily higher on the
should help out a little. And who sewing machine, or the ironing which
is Meryl?" hung perennially on the clothes' rack.
''We were practicing a song and But by the time the short cold days of
aO RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
winter had set in, she began to worry that she would have to work night
about Betty's frequent colds. Emily shift for several weeks; he was short
knew that Aunt Bessie, really the soul of experienced women for the night
of kindness, nevertheless must have work.
her house neat, and that often the 'It will mean that you'll have to
twins played out-of-doors late on see to getting the twins to bed," she
chilly afternoons with sweaters un- told Etta, as they prepared supper,
buttoned and caps left carelessly in 'Tour father is on the afternoon
the house. She tried to console her- shift, and I have to leave right after
self with the knowledge that, as she supper."
always worked day shift, she was at Etta didnt reply at first, but went
home evenings to see that the chil- on setting the table. "Fve a chance
dren went to bed on time, with colds to work evenings and Saturdays down
doctored if necessary. Somehow, she at El Dansante Cafe, waiting on ta-
had ceased to talk over family trou- bles," she began at last,
bles with her husband. By the time ''Oh, but Etta," Emily's voice
she had finished her almost endless lifted in quick concern. "I don't want
evening tasks, he was usually asleep you to work down there. It'll be too
in his chair; or, if he was working hard on you. Anyway, I need you
night shift, he had to leave for work here at home." She forced her lips
soon after she came home. And, like to smile.
herself, he seemed too tired for much Etta glanced curiously at her conversation. The few words they mother; and the older woman real- had for each other were merely mo- ized, with a pang, that her daughter ments snatched from seemingly more suddenly seemed grownup, an adult essential things. who faced her with alien eyes. "But
She would have liked to talk to Mother," replied Etta, "you don't him about the sealed note addressed stay home. Why should I?" to her which fell from Bill's overall In the end, Etta won her parents' pocket one night as she was hanging grudging consent to take the job; the up the children's clothes. "Dear hours wouldn't be long, and the pro- Mrs. Merrill," it began, "if possible, prietor promised to see that the girls will you please see that Billy gets got home safely. Emily prevailed some extra drill on his 'times upon Aunt Bessie to keep the twins tables each evening? Otherwise, I at night, and for a while everything may have to put him in a slower seemed to go smoothly again, group. Your cooperation will be Emily couldn't remember, later, greatly ..." and signed with the just when she first began to notice teacher's name. A guilty flush spread a change in Etta. It may have been over Emily's face. The afternoons the morning Jack told her that their and evenings of over half the season daughter was staying at El Dansante had slipped away, and Billy had gone to dance long after her work was joyfully on, his "times tables" cards, finished. "I've spoken to her about sent home earlier in the year, repos- it. But I'm to go on night shift my- ing in the cupboard drawer. self, now, so you'd better remind her
It was only a few days later that the to get home early," he warned Emily,
foreman, Mr. Walters, told Emily One afternoon, she was roused by
ALL THAT GLITTERS
21
the sound of Etta's and Meryl's voices in the kitchen. She glanced at the clock. Only two-thirty; they should still be in school. She frowned as she slid her feet into slippers and pulled her robe around her shoulders. It was hard enough to get a little rest, what with the essential housework lasting most of the forenoon. "How is it you two aren't in class?" she asked, opening the kitchen door.
''Oh, we . . . that is, I . . . got a call to go to work a little earlier," , answered Etta lamely.
"But Etta, you shouldn't miss school for any other work." Emily tried to keep the panic out of her voice. She realized, without know- ing why, that this had happened before.
"Oh, Mother, don't be silly." Et- ta's young face flushed vdth embar- rassment. She glanced at her friend, who was watching with a little amused smile.
"Well, let's not have it happen again." Emily turned back to the bedroom, suddenly conscious of her towsled hair and crumpled robe un- der Meryl's cool appraising eyes. Funny she'd never noticed before what a bold look the girl had, vdth frankly darkened lashes and too bright lipstick. It was later that same afternoon that she found Meryl's compact on the kitchen table. Only, as it sprang open in her hand, it con- tained not rouge and powder, but cigarettes.
Etta, questioned about the matter, replied sulkily that she didn't know if Meryl smoked; it wasn't any of her business anyway, was it? The incident was crowded back in Emily's mind by the endless tide of work that pushed her on.
Then one Friday morning Emily was searching for her coat, getting ready to go home. She hummed a tune, thinking of what Mr. Walters, the foreman, had said as she left her work. "It's time for you to change back to day shift again Sunday, Mrs. Merrill. You've done so well, I want you to supervise the women workers. Only thing, you may be 'frozen' to your job for the duration, and you'll have to take your turn at the night shift. But it'll mean an increase in pay. Let me know when you come back Sunday." Preoccupied, she was at first unaware of what the women on the other side of the rack were saying.
"... well, if Etta were my daugh- ter, I'd never let her run around with that Meryl Sisom."
"... humph. I guess she's just as bad as the rest. Out all hours of the night. The whole crowd smok- ing and drinking, so I hear."
The door banged after the women. Emily stood clutching her coat, their words still ringing in her ears. Of course, it wasn't true! It couldn't be. Not Etta. Then she remembered the cigarette case.
The ride home in the crowded bus seemed endless. She found Jack in the kitchen, gloomily cooking his breakfast. Emily sat down by the table and pushed back the stale dishes from last night's supper. If only she could stop shaking while she told him.
He said nothing at first, and Emily thought that, oddly, he didn't seem surprised. "Well, Emily," he said gravely at last, "I don't know as I blame you for trying to earn a little extra. Heaven knows you deserve it, after all your years of going without.
22 RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
But this old 'home ship' of ours needs in from work. Now, don't cry,
a pilot at the helm. Go into the living Emily, she's all right — so far, at
room." least." He put his arm around her
''Go into . . . but what . . . ?" shoulders, and in an instant the
"Just go on in. You'll see." He aloofness of the past months van- pushed back his chair and followed ished in their common bond of con- her. cern. Then the rough gentleness in
For the rest of her life Emily would his voice gave way to sudden anger.,
remember the scene— the early light ''But I won't have it. This is the
mottling the rug, the fur jacket flung end. No daughter of mine. ..."
carelessly on a chair, and on the new Etta sat up, rubbing her eyes,
divan, the girl lying asleep, still "Gee, what's the matter? Say, I
fully clothed, her bright hair spilling didn't intend to stay here all night."
over the dark cushions. Emily "All night!" Her father's voice ex-,
opened her mouth, but no words ploded like a storm. "Don't worry,
came. Her feet were like lead as she daughter." You haven't been here
walked across the room and bent all night! Now just you listen to
down. She hadn't known how her me." His angry words beat upon
knees were trembling until they gave Etta's bowed head. But Emily, still
way and she sank down on the edge dabbing at her eyes with her wadded
of the divan. "Oh, Jack, Jack!" she handkerchief, had made up her mind
sobbed, "she isn't . . . that is, I at last. She had gone to the hall
thought. . . ." phone and dialed a number. "Hello,
"No, she isn't drunk," said Jack is this ... oh, all right. Just give Mr.
bluntly, "just given out from dancing Walters a message for me, please,
at that fool place where she works. Tell him that Mrs. Emily Merrill will
I put my coat over her when I came not be at work . . . any more."
^ ■
BEYOND THIS NIGHT
Linnie Fishei Robinson
We toiled, beloved, to build a universe secure,
Hoping for lasting peace, where we could turn
To things of home; nor dreamed our sons should thus endure
Days like those other ones we knew. But hate fires burn,
Raging across the world; dreams fall apart
Leaving but blackened ruins smoldering behind.
Bringing despair to try the human heart
And tear security from out the human mind.
Yet counting all the sands our lives have known,
Adding our joy when peace lay on the land.
We can but say that life is good; we can but own
That, through those storms, we knew that God was in command.
Today, that candle, in this dark, shines bright For things our sons shall gather past the night!
Psychological Warfare— An
Invisible Weapon
Mark K. Allen Psychologist, Utah State Training School
WAR is fought today from sistance in the enemy's army and ci- three principal approaches: vilian population and to diminish the economic, the military, enemy prestige in the eyes of the and the psychological. Economic neutrals." An Axis spokesman has warfare means ''starvation for our said, speaking of psychological war- enemies and food for our friends." fare, that "It is essential to attacK It means keeping the enemy from the enemy nation in its weak spots, obtaining from anywhere in the to undermine and break down its re- world the things he needs to live and sistance, and to convince it that it to make war on us— the food, the is being deceived, misled, and iron, the fuel, and the other ma- brought to destruction by its own terials needed to make and operate government. Thus the people will a war machine. In an age of mechan- lose confidence in the justice of its ization, this type of warfare is very cause so that the political opposition important. In this type of warfare— in those nations will raise its head the economic— the Allies had the and become a more powerful troub- better of the argument in World le-maker. The enemy nation's orig- War 1. But in this war, the Axis has inally solid, powerful, and well-knit already reduced through conquest fabric must be gradually disinte- this economic inequality. grated, broken down, rotted, so that In the military phase of war, until it falls apart like a fungus treaded recently, the Axis seems to have had upon in a forest." a definite advantage, because of Psychological warfare consists of longer preparation, more thorough spreading rumors, false reports, training, and a more definite military threats, and fears of deadly secret plan than was the case with the weapons. The channels through United Nations. Our present mobil- ^j^^^j^ ^his type of warfare is prose- ization and arms production pro- ^^^^^ ^^^ short-wave radio, fifth col- gram, as well as mass air attacks on ^^^^ ^^^ ^^^^^^ l^^^ed by agents Axis war industries, are calculated to . . ^ j j i. remove this advantage. ^ *^^ ^PP^"f *i^"^, ^P^'l^ \P".^; The third type of warfare-the P^^ uncritically. The type of material psychological-means weakening the spread usually has to do with the opponent through all sorts of tricks strength of the aggressor, the weak- designed to confuse, to frighten, to ness of the defender, and the futility discourage, to mislead, and to divide, of resistance. An attempt is made It is ''an offensive war waged with to discredit the leaders of the op- intellectual and emotional weapons posing nations. In eariy stages of to destroy the power of morale re- psychological warfare, a feeling of
Page 23
24 RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
easy complacency is encouraged by the nearer their claims fit our preju-
promises of non-aggression. dices, the more they stir up strife
Psychological warfare is referred and disunity among us. Religious
to today by news commentators as prejudices are easily aroused by
the 'war of nerves," the ''strategy propaganda, and political disunity is
of terror,'' "breaking down the home readily promoted. Repeated at-
front," "demoralizing the enemy," tempts have been made to drive
and the "war of words," or propa- wedges between the United States
ganda. and Great Britain by saying that
With the stepping up of com- "Britain always gets someone else munications, especially the radio, to pull her chestnuts out of the psychological warfare has taken on a fire." Likewise, Japan points out to new significance in the present war. China the futility of expecting con- There is nothing incomprehensible tinned help from allies who have so in this type of warfare, and every miserably "let her down in the past." American should thoroughly under- Short-wave radio propaganda from stand it and realize how treacherous- nations at war with us has been par- ly it can attack, even over many ticularly directed toward stirring up thousands of miles of land and sea. economic class hatred in America.
Let us, then, turn to the problem One of the corner stones of this plan of psychological warfare as practiced oi conquest is the hope that America against the Democracies, Freedom of will collapse from within because of press, of speech, and of assembly— the failure to achieve class unity. La- all censored or denied in totalitarian bor is stirred up against capital, and countries as a step in the psycho- capital against labor. Unfortunately, logical preparation of their own many people in this country are people— in democratic countries pro- caught in this trap because of already vide fertile soil in which to wage established prejudices along this line psychological warfare. of thinking, which, of course, invites
The Axis program has three prin- propaganda of this character from
cipal aims: (i) to increase conflict the enemies of this country,
and disunity among us; (2) to pro- The second general aim of psy-
duce anxiety, fear, and confusion; chological warfare, after divisions
and (3) to produce apathy and dis- are fostered among the people, is to
illusionment. produce anxiety, fear, and confusion.
Just as the Axis strategy on the This is done through pointing out to
battlefield is to divide and then to the victim the invincibility of the
conquer, so on the psychological aggressor. It consists of a strong mili-
front every possible device is em- tary power intimidating a weaker one
ployed to promote disunity among into submission. The weak are told
us. The starting points are our own oi the fate of other victims, and are
latent prejudices. A few of the most warned of a worse fate, and im-
common possibilities are racial, reli- pressed with the futility of resist-
gious, political, national, and eco- ance. This "strategy of terror" has
nomic class prejudices. The efforts been one of the crudest weapons of
of the enemies of this country to stir the aggressors. If weak peoples still
up racial hatreds are well known, and resisted after due warning, their fate
PSYCOLOGICAL WARFARE 25
was as bad as promised and became been known to spread much propa-
a warning to the next victim. ganda about some great action, such
Terror is spread by several devic- as the move through the Balkans,
es. Civilian bombing is perhaps the then the talk would subside, then it
most dreadful. Bombs are even made would start up again and die down
to scream to add to the terror. In- again. Finally, when everyone had
cendiaries and delayed-action bombs become apathetic about it, they
prolong and intensify the terror of would strike. Japan talked of arbi-
mass raids. The threat of gas bombs trating her difficulties with United
has also been used to advantage. States up until the very day the at-
Fear has been spread by such tricks tack was made on Pearl Harbor. The
as throwing images on the clouds Japanese have repeatedly tried to
with huge lantern-slide projectors, disillusion the people of the United
Little does a warring nation care States about the reliability of the re-
whether its opponents are destroyed ports given them from the Navy as
by bombs and shells or by psych olo- to losses. Japan's technique is to an-
gical methods so long as they cease nounce— sometimes accurately, but
resistance. Panic and a broken will often not— United States' naval los-
to resist through actual combat or ses several days in advance of the
war work is the aim of the ''strategy Navy's reports. In the battle of Java,
of terror." If psychological victories in which United States losses were
can be won, they are usually much severe, Japan announced them with
less costly than actual mihtary con- some accuracy many days before our
quests. It is difficult to estimate how report— the aim being to make it ap-
much aggressor armies and machines pear to the people of this country
have been spared by psychological that Japan forced the Navy to make
victories of the propaganda bureaus, admissions it othenvise would not
Confusion is spread by circulating J^^^e made. People should constant- all sorts of false news reports. Re- ^V ^^ ^n guard agamst this trick, re- ports from an opposing nation may membermg how important itis for say an attack will be made at a cer- ^"^ ^avy to avoid giving information tain time at a certain place. Then ^^ opposing nations, the place will be changed. When Another plan is to announce sev- sufficient confusion has been caused, eral days in advance the capture of an attack will be made at a wholly a certain city which is quite sure to unexpected place. Confusion makes be taken later. This forces a denial organized resistance more difficult, from the defenders at first, but an False reports have been circulated admission later when the city is ac- repeatedly in this war by nations tually taken— all of which, it is whose armies were locked in close hoped, will establish confidence in combat with those of other nations, the reliability of reports from the often successfully dispersing and opposing nations and a distrust of re- disorganizing the opposing forces. ports of one's own nation. Another
The third aim of psychological trick of similar character, practiced
warfare is to promote apathy and dis- by the Axis, is the announcement of
illusionment. The Axis nations have false victories for the Democracies.
26 RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
Since we are watchful for good news, ize how "pacifistic'' at heart we are,
we may accept these reports, not sus- and they are sure to attempt to turn
pecting their origin. Later, when this fine ideal to our destruction,
reports prove untrue, we become dis- The defense against psychological
illusioned and confused. warfare is as complicated as war it-
The secretive way in which the self. Let us hope that some under-
Axis powers plan campaigns often standing of what it is will aid in our
lulls us into a sense of false security, resistance to it. However, civilians
Our perilous plight of unprepared- can prepare themselves against it in
ness during the early months of this some measure by abiding by the fol-
war was our punishment for years of lowing suggestions:
this weakness. Nations at war with First, keep reliably informed on
the United States have taken great the daily news. Learn to check ha-
advantage of our easy optimism and bitually the sources of all reports and
uncritical self-sufficiency. We have to evaluate their content according
failed to take a proper measure of to their source,
those who are against us, and we Second, don't carry rumors. They
have considerably overestimated the are the most unreliable source of
security we have in extensive but un- news there is. Remember, most of
developed material resources and them are planted by those opposed
manpower. Nations opposing this to us, and they are meant to confuse
country still feign weakness at times and mislead us. Always ask the ru-
to lull us into this sense of false se- mor monger where he got his storv.
curity and the resulting relaxation Write it down if it sounds vicious
of effort. enough, then check it with your ci-
Another potent psychological vilian defense authorities. You might weapon is the peace offensive, thus help to find fifth columnists. Should the United Nations appear Don't repeat rumors to your neigh- to be really about to win the war, a bors.
strong bid for peace can surely be Third, speak constructively of de- expected from the Axis. The hope mocracy and its leaders. This doesn't will be to lull the Democracies back mean not to criticize, but it does into a sense of false security, while mean to learn to see and to speak of further preparation may be made to all that is good as well as that which attack them. The Axis nations real- needs correcting.
<►
FAITH AND COURAGE
The following Christmas messaage by Nicholas Murray Butler may appropriately be carried into the new year:
Christmas Day in this year of grace will be celebrated with civilization at the lowest mark in the history of modern times. This means that more than ever men of light and leading and insight must have faith and courage and hope. They must not and cannot let their faith weaken in those everlasting ideals which must rule any civilized and peace- ful world ....
Little Stones that Change the Course of Rivers
Ldh MarJer Hoggan
NO river runs down to the sea A chance rock in an upland brook,
without meeting with ob- ^^y change a river's course. And yet no
stacles and interferences. And .. ^^^^' , „.,.
i-r £ icM -i. J i.- -i-T- i. JNo, nor the batthng mountains of the world,
no hfe fulfills Its destiny without Can hold it from its destiny, the sea. overcoming trials and hardships.
Yet we chafe under restraint. We Though a stone may divert the
resent interference. We become stream from its original channel, the
frustrated when sorrow and disap- water flows around it and makes its
pointment disrupt our plans. We way in and out, under and over, past
feel that life should run smoothly stick and pebble and deadwood and
for us. Why should our course be growing things, on and on until it
hampered and blocked at every turn? reaches the surging sea. Why should obstacles be forever re- The picturesque cataract that
tarding our progress? Are the very breaks in sparkling grandeur over a
fates discriminating against us? jagged cliff and spills itself in lacy
Know this, O friend, neither life rainbows down a mountain gorge,
nor law discriminate against anyone, has gathered the very force that glori-
We reach the high goals we set out fies it from the obstruction that
to achieve through the conquest of blocked its way. difficulties. Said }. G. Holland: ^^ ^^^gpt the barriers on life's
,,, . , ^, ^, . ^, ^ y xx^ '' pathway as impediments to progress
We rise by the thmes that are neath our 4 , i -, i r . i r r
£gg|.. J ° IS to admit deteat betore we riave
By what we have mastered of good and undertaken the journey. All lives
gain. are beset by struggle and pain and
By the pride deposed and the passion slain, sorrow. This is nature's way of
And the vanquished ills that we hourly teaching US the things we need to
meet
know. We can't gain experience
There is a native in his island home through the efforts of someone else,
who believes that "the strength and Our joys and sorrows must come first
valor of the enemy he kills passes hand. We have to work in order
into himself." Symbolically, this is to learn to work. We have to suffer
true. We gain strength and develop- ^ order to gain insight into life,
ment from the conquest of difficult We have to pray in order to learn
undertakings. Disappointments and what prayer means, delays are often the forces that are Real values come only through
preparing us to assume responsi- earnest effort. Intellectual growth
bilities of importance. We have to and spiritual development are not
meet and overcome trials before we attained by listless wishing. Emer-
are in readiness to accept the great son said: "The law of nature is, Do
trusts. Said a great poet: the thing, and you shall have the
Page 27
28
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
power: but they who do not the thing have not the power."
It is not the reward, but the strug- gle that perfects us. Effort precedes efficiency, and "joy is in the quest."
We are forever consoHng ourselves with alibis and excuses for the things we have failed to accomplish- Though we can not explain our weaknesses and failures away, even to ourselves, still we can overcome them and lift ourselves nearer to the ideal that we secretly cherish. Our strength of character is measured by our mastery of the trials we have met. What we think and feel and do puts its mark upon us with indelible fingers. Truly ''the gods we worship write their names on our faces."
A SCOUTMASTER and some members of his troop were at- tending a rodeo. They stood on the sidelines one morning and watched a procession march gaily down the street. Decked in full regalia, a group of Indians from a nearby reservation headed the parade. Brilliant Navajo blankets covered their horses' backs in lieu of saddles. But nothing 'ex- cited the admiration of the on-lookers so much as the gorgeous war bonnets worn by the old Indian chieftains. These bonnets not only encircled their faces with bright feathers and other trophies, but also extended gracefully down their backs nearly to their feet.
At the close of the parade a pomp- ous young man stepped up to one of the Indians and offered him a hand- ful of small coins for his war bonnet. The Indian silently shook his head.
"Doesn't he understand the fel- low?" asked one of the scouts. "Yes," said the scoutmaster, that Indian speaks English as fluently as you or I
do. But his war bonnet, like your merit badges, is not for sale. Every eagle feather, every weasel tail, every bear's claw in his bonnet is a sym- bol of some heroic accomplishment or brave deed. The headdress repre- sents years of effort and is a mark of honor and heroism. He would no more sell it than a king would sell his crown." The scouts understood, for each of them was wearing troph- ies that had cost him long hours of study and effort to obtain. They knew the delight that comes from a worthy achievement.
Too often we adults miss the joy of some great accomplishment be- cause we lack the courage or confi- . dence to begin. We tell ourselves that we are too old or too busy or that we haven't the ability for such an undertaking. We let our fears and misgivings baffle us. We wall ourselves out from privileges we might enjoy. We permit lost oppor- tunities to taunt us, old age to fright- en us, ignorance to threaten us. Our mistakes rise up before us like shrouded ghosts in the darkness to accuse and intimidate us.
Down with the wall! Banish the spectre! Forget the failures of yes- terday! Are we not God's children all? And have we not been assured that He will give us' strength and courage according to our need?
To the valiant hearted there is no ultimate defeat. There is always a tomorrow. "True art," says Annie Pike Greenwood, "is in bringing some sort of triumph out of pain."*
Even the Master knew Gethse- mane and the cross. But did He not rise to triumphant glory, to stand as the Savior of the world and as a guid- ing light to mankind forevermore?
*Used by special permission of author.
Justice Is a Group Affair
Eva Willes Wangsgaard
JUDITH RAWSON sat on a rag cept for that habit she had of wip-
rug on the summer grass, wrap- ing her perfectly dry Hps with her
ped in the warm, fruity smell of handkerchief; and the pink in her
yellow roses, and thought about peo- cheeks was too bright. She'd be all
pie and life. It had been long since right, though, and so would Artie
she had had time to sit and think, whose thoughts were always slow,
But now the examinations were over, but exact.
and she was graduated, and there Judith left off thinking of her
was a whole glorious afternoon for brother and sister and looked
her very own. around. Then a teacher appeared
She looked down at her gradua- and began writing questions on the tion dress made of white lawn with board, and Judith bent to her work a yoke of tucks and insertion and of writing answers on the paper that ruffles of Valenciennes lace; and she lay on her desk which had been pro- remembered how nearly she had vided for this purpose, come to not having it. That made All day the examinations went on. her recall Edna Silver and Edna's A large staff of teachers corrected pa- courageous words, and the beauty of pers as fast as they were handed in, those words caught in her throat and so by nighttime everyone knew tightened her chest; and the whole whether or not he had passed, school year, just past, began to un- To know was a relief, though fold in little scenes like stereopticon some of the kids failed and cried, or views. even got hysterical. Judith turned
There was Crossburg the day of her eyes away from that memory, the examinations. The eighth She knew some of them, and it hurt graders from every town in the to remember, county met in the Crossburg Cen- But there were happier scenes. A tral schoolhouse in three crowded girl from Hillsdale got such high rooms, which had been thrown into marks that they called her a vale- one large hall by sliding the great dictorian, and she gave a speech at doors which made up their walls. the exercises. Maybe on some other
Judith sat in the room at the south graduation day Judith could do that
where the warm May sun crept for her class.
through the Venetian blinds. When And here were her white lawn
she looked for Margie, her sister, she dress and her hat of white chiffon
found her in the center of the mid- pleated into a bandeau covered with
die room, but no matter how she pink for-get-me-nots instead of the
craned her neck, she couldn't see her blue ones Margie wore. But she al-
brother, Artie. He must be in the most hadn't got them. . . .
third room, and it was around a cor- Ever since she had entered Mr.
ner so that only a triangle of it was Peterson's eighth grade, she had felt
visible from where Judith sat. baffled. Mr. Peterson didn't believe
Every student was tense with ex- in special promotions. Helen Tan-
citement. Margie looked calm, ex- ner was somehow an exception.
Page 29
30 RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
Maybe that was because Mr. Peter- gie had been in another room that
son taught her the year before; he was all seventh grade. Judith had
had been promoted with the class, been sixth grade then. With two
Helen was dainty and pretty, too, classes in one room there had been
with her auburn curls and her gray more study time, and Judith had
eyes that smiled flatteringly up at found it hard to keep out of mis-
him from under long, dark, curled chief.
lashes. Besides she was a whole year She had sat in one corner among
older than Judith. a group of boys. The daily assign-
"What do they think Fm running ments hadn't been nearly enough, so
here? A kindergarten?" Mr. Peter- she had coached the whole group in son was tall and skinny with thin, . arithmetic until they were two
forward-falling brown hair, and he months ahead. Then it wasn't fun
flipped Judith's registration card as any more. Billy, Clyde, and Robert
he spoke. had liked it at first, and they were
Judith just stood there fingering good sports, too. They didn't care
the pink ribbon that tied her yellow if Judith was a girl, but worked with
braids into a swing, and lifted brown her anyway. But they lost interest, eyes to his spiral-like, blue-green
ones, which refused to meet hers. CV^^ ^^Y J^^^i^h had finished the
He wasn't ever openly cross; he last word in Sdi-Hdp by Sam- just hid behind soft prickles like uel Smiles, which Mr. Jerome had wild lettuce, so that the damp hand lent her. There wasn't a single thing of caution pressed always on her to do. Clyde was whittling a slender throat. stick into a "guinny."
If she sometimes got too excited "Want it, Judy?" he had whis-
and forgot and called out the an- pered.
swer, he would say, "Grown-up peo- "Thanks. It's cute." Judith be-
ple wait their turns. Only babies yell gan to tap the tiny stick with her
for attention." Then her report card ruler.
would read: Deportment Good or Mr. Jerome had sat down at his
Fail. Not once had there been an desk to check a lesson. Judith had
Excdhnt or a Very Good the way slid into the aisle and had given the
her studies said. toy harder and harder taps. It had
Father had talked and talked to leaped and fallen with a small,
her about it, but she didn't know dropped pencil sound. Suddenly it
how to change. Father said, 'Teach- had gone sailing through the air and
ers are always right." had lit, plop, on Mr. Jerome's book.
Last year it had been different, be- Judith had slipped instantly back cause Mr. Jerome had been kind and into her seat and seized a book. Mr. wise like Father generally was. Even Jerome had picked up the offending his hair curled in happy little curls, toy and had held it before his face, and his eyes were warm and blue. "A 'guinny' is a dangerous play- Last year there had been two classes thing, even on the school ground," in one room— one sixth and one sev- he said. He pressed his forefinger up enth grade. Artie had been in the and down on one sharp point. Then, seventh with Mr. Jerome, but Mar- "Here, Judith. Dispose of it."
JUSTICE IS A GROUP AFFAIR 31
If he had pricked her with the and was still for a long moment,
"guinny," Judith couldn't have been Then he went on conducting class,
more startled and ashamed, nor At promotion time Mr. Jerome
could she have jumped more quick- had decided harder work would be
ly. She had walked to the desk, better for Judith. So he had jumped
though, and, taking the "guinny" her into the eighth grade,
from his outstretched hand, had But Mr. Peterson didn't look at
dropped it into the wire wastebas- things that way. He resented both
ket. The incident was closed, and her energy and her youngness. He
Mr. Jerome hadn't marked down her resented all of her.
report card. He knew how hard she This year all three of the Rawson
tried to hold herself back. children were in the same room.
But afterwards Judith discovered Judith hung around Margie too
that there were interesting texts in much, but there were no other com-
the seventh grade desks and bor- panions in the room. She missed last
rowed one often. And she listened year's kids.
to seventh grade discussions instead Some of these kids were old— sev-
of getting into trouble. enteen and eighteen. They stayed
Even that proved embarrassing, at home so often to work in fields
though. and orchards. Artie often stayed
One day when Mr. Jerome was di- home to look after things while Fa- recting a seventh grade geography ther was away, but Judith and Mar- class he asked, ''What article nee- gie seldom missed a day. So Margie essary in manufacturing is entirely was just right. It was Judith and absent in Brazil?" Artie who were out of place.
The class had sat too still. No And there was Edna Silver who
hands were raised. was an orphan and lived with a cross
Then up went Judith's hand. aunt. The other children in the
Mr. Jerome's kind eyes looked room told tales about how much
tired. Maybe he was wondering what work she had to do each day before
the child could want now. Maybe she came to school, and lots and
he was weary because the seventh lots of days she didn't get there at
graders were unprepared. But he all. Judith had often helped her with
decided to settle Judith first. lessons at recess, because Judith was
"What is it?" he asked. often lonely and didn't know how
"Coal," answered Judith. to mix with these new kids.
Two rows of seventh grade faces Edna learned well too. Some of
came up at once and stared at Ju- the other big girls couldn't learn
dith. Three rows of sixth grade stu- even when you tried your hardest,
dents quit studying and giggled. Ju- because they couldn't forget that
dith dropped her hot face on her they were older than you. But Edna
desk and felt the cool, smooth touch wasn't like that. She thought of the
of the maple top. work, not herself, and stuck with Ju-
Mr. Jerome raised his brows, dith no matter how often Judith had
"Where did you learn that?" to go over a thing. And she \yas
"I read it." eighteen, too. She was a nice gid,
"Well, you're correct," he said, but too old to play with Judith.
32
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
Lizzie Shaw was Margie's play- mate—she and Helen Tanner. But Lizzie didn't want Margie's little sister along and often made it plain that what she said was not for Ju- dith's ears. Helen Tanner was all right when she and Judith studied together. But she acted just like Lizzie when it was recess time and she didn't need her.
School wasn't nearly so much fun as it had been last year. But Mr. Pe- terson puzzled Judith more than the pupils did.
When the class was in diagram- ing, Lizzie, Margie, Helen, and Ju- dith read the text and went ahead almost without trouble. But if they ever got stuck, Mr. Peterson was al- ways busy. It didn't matter much, though. One of them always found the help they needed by reading the book again.
One day, Mr. Peterson was put- ting a diagram on the board. He made a mistake. Lizzie's hand went up. She was like that. Things were never correct or incorrect to Lizzie. They were right or wrong, and must be set straight. So she told Mr. Pe- terson.
He was quiet and went very pale. Finally, "How would you do it?" he asked.
Lizzie drew the correct diagram. Judith, Margie, and Helen nodded.
Mr. Peterson said, "Well, that's right, too. Just be careful to have a reason for your diagram."
Lizzie opened her mouth, then shut it tight and plunked into her seat, and the lesson went on.
There was a lot of work to be done in the eighth grade and Judith liked it, but she wasn't happy. She felt choked. There were too many ways for Mr. Peterson to show what he
thought of special promotion stu- dents, like asking Judith if she didn't need a rest when you could hear the younger students out at recess.
Once after he had said that, Ju- dith stood by the steps not feeling like joining in any of the games at all. Edna Silver had come up and put her arm around Judith's shoul- der. "Don't let it bother you, Judy," she said. "You're all right. Keep right on going. You're the kind that can. I can't, but part of me will fol- low you however far you go. Now run and play." Judith smiled and ran.
"lyHEN the report cards for the third term came out, Judith opened hers eagerly. She'd tried to be good, and maybe Mr. Peterson had noticed. But she held it down and stared at the wall. The subjects weren't so bad. You either got your lessons and passed your examinations with high marks or low, but deport- ment was different. That was the teacher's opinion. Now it was lower than ever and stood out like a stump in the snow— P for Poor.
Father would be disappointed and so would Mother. They had said that she couldn't have a new dress for graduation if she didn't improve in behavior. It was no use to talk. Teacher was always right. "It didn't matter how much you learned if you didn't know how to live," Father had said.
Judith thought and thought. She could find no reason for such a low mark. She had "called out" a few times, but so many, many times she had succeeded in holding back even when she was the only one who wanted to answer! She guessed Mr.
JUSTICE IS A GROUP AFFAIR
33
Peterson was right. Kids shouldn't get ahead of themselves.
Margie would have her new dress now, and Judith would have to wear an old one, if they let her go to the exercises at all.
Still, maybe it was a mistake. Hope struck a small match. It didn't seem fair, and teachers did some- times make mistakes in copying, just as students did. She'd go and ask him. Anyway, she might find out what was wrong so that she could improve the last term. If she did, maybe she could have her new dress after all.
But Mr. Peterson wouldn't notice her. Other children were around his desk, and he kept taking new ones even after Judith was sure that it was her turn.
When she tried to get attention, Mr. Peterson said, ''Don't push like a baby."
There was nothing to do but wait. She pushed the tears back so that she wouldn't be a baby.
She felt an arm around her and looked up into Edna Silver's quiet eyes. Edna took Judith's report card, glanced at it, and handed it back. How long she had been listening and watching, Judith didn't know. But now she was speaking to Mr. Pe- terson.
''What's wrong with Judith's be- havior? I think she's a good little kid. I've learned a lot from her." She sounded defiant, but she wasn't. She was just earnest. That was evident by the light in her fine, grey eyes; and something in her voice made Mr. Peterson listen.
Silence stretched like an elastic band between them, then snapped, and Edna continued, "Children are a sacred trust. They have a right to
fairness and to understanding." A change came over her face. "We can't play favorites. I know one who wouldn't get such good marks if she didn't borrow Judith Rawson's eraser so often during tests."
Helen Tanner was putting her books into her sack. She gave Edna a swift look, and hurried out of the room with one book still in her hand.
Judith stood fascinated. Mr. Pe- terson had the same look he had on his face the day Lizzie corrected the diagram. But Edna stood tall on her convictions, and the color flamed high in her cheeks. She wasn't fight- ing for Judith alone.
"Ahem! Ahem!" Mr. Peterson cleared his throat, but found noth- ing to say.
Edna hadn't finished. "Whether you play fair with Judith or not isn't just between you and the child. Justice is a group affair, and wc old- er students expect to see justice done."
Mr. Peterson looked out into the room, then dropped his eyes and went on making little fishes with his pencil on a blotter on his desk.
Judith looked up. Almost every older student in the room stood in a little group in the rear looking at Edna with approving eyes. Artie was among them, straight r.nJ tall, with his large blue eyes almost violet with concern, and those crooked little lines above his nose deeper than she had ever seen them.
Judith choked and tears spilled over and ran down her cheeks. The older kids were wonderful! And all this time that she had been con- cerned only with herself, they had known and cared.
(Continued on page 75)
Woman's Sphere
Ramona W. Cannon
\\TYTH time, woman's sphere has expanded from the primitive dugout to the whole intelHgent uni- verse. In today's world, woman is laborer, mechanic, soldier, doctor, lawyer, scientist, statesman, nurse, teacher, philosopher, poet. Never has she had such power to shape the destiny of men and of nations. God grant she may use her strength wisely and kindly and justly in helping to rebuild the shattered world!
R
I
ENSELAER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE, the oldest engin- eering college in the nation, now— for the first time— is admitting women both to the student body, and to the faculty.
N the University of Southern Cali- fornia two departments are head- ed by women: the German, by Mrs. Ruth Day, and the Latin by Dr. Ruth Brown.
jyj RS. E. O. HOWARD, "mother" of Salt Lake's beautiful Mem- ory Park, which hallows the memory of the dead heroes of World War I, has lost a grandson in the present conflict. In the former war her only son, a captain in the American forces, died in the Argonne just before the Armistice. His only son, who was born shortly after his father's death, a flyer in the Eagle Squadron, gave his life in this struggle.
WENDELL L. WILLKIE report- ed that Mme, Chiang Kai-shek is the only individual he ever met whose personality far exceeds the build-up of press agents. America feels high enthusiasm for the visit Page 34
of this wise, sympathetic Chinese woman who has stood beside her husband in battle and counseled him in his overwhelming difficulties.
nPHE entire personnel of one air- craft factory in Britain is made up of women.
jyjRS. JULIA ELLERTSON ROB- INSON, 94, died recendy in Salt Lake City.
TN the American Bundles for Brit- ain campaign, the Red Cross con- tributions alone have totaled $31,-
000,000.
'pHE WAACs are to be increased from 25,000 to 150,000.
'T^HE spirited young Russian sniper. Lieutenant Lyudmilla Pavlich- enko, has captivated American audi- ences by her intelligence, character, and sincerity. She fights to preserve home and country. She hopes to marry and rear a family after the war.
r\ONNA D. SORENSEN, former counselor in the General Presi- dency of Relief Society, and a pres- ent General Board member, and Le- ona F. Wintch, General Board member, have each recently given birth to a son.
PHILOSOPHY in a New Key: a Study in the Symbolism of Rea- son, Rite, and Art is a new scientific book of worth and originality by Dr. Suzanne K. Langer of Radcliffe Col- lege. One challenging idea in this book is that ''man can adapt himself somehow to anything that his imag- ination can cope with."
EDITORIAL
Vol. 30
JANUARY. 1943
No. 1
c/l I iev;> dieart a
^^r^AST away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit . . . ."
The end of a year is a favorable time to ''cast away . . . transgres- sions" and seek to make ''a new heart and a new spirit/' for there is encour- agement in viewing the events of the past year as being behind one and re- garding the new year that lies ahead much as a book, unmarred and un- marked, containing three hundred and sixty-five blank pages on which will be written defeats or triumphs, retrogression or progress.
It is true that many of the events which may affect one during the coming year arise through no voli- tion of the individual; but the pages of this yearbook will glow with beauty or be drab and even ugly— not because of events that may transpire, but according to the manner in which the individual meets these events. The most luminous page may shine with faith developed from experiencing one of life's darkest tragedies.
This life is a time of testing and proving whether or not one is a true -Latter-day Saint. "I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings."
To write a yearbook worthy of a Latter-day Saint, one must contin- ually study the Gospel and seek to live a life in accordance with its teachings. The more one studies, the more clearly do one's own faults and even transgressions cry out for correction. In this inward searching, the first examination may well reveal failings manifested in the home in one's daily life. Is there need of more patience and understanding for
nd a I lew Spirit
loved ones, or is there the need for more firmness and discipline? Is a resolution wanted to make every minute count? Brigham Young once said ''that our time was all we could call our own, we should have to give an account of it, and therefore wc should use it to the best possible advantage in assisting to build up the Kingdom of God on earth." On the other hand, should more time be devoted to the home the better to guard it, should more care be given to train one's children more perfect- ly in the laws and principles of the Gospel, in having family prayers and in studying the scriptures?
One may also resolve to more fre- quently visit the sick, seek to bring cheer to the afflicted and comfort to the sorrowing, and to more faithful- ly attend to one's Ghurch duties. But perhaps it is wisdom not to un- dertake too many resolutions at once, although one does naturally continually strive to improve in many ways. One or two resolutions faithfully kept are better than many abandoned before the keeping has become a habit. It is well, finally, when making a resolution to live and plan for the day alone and let the to- morrows wait until they in turn be- come today. The present moment is the only time that must be lived.
If then as each succeeding year advances, resolutions are made and kept looking toward improvement and development, these resolutions will, in time, serve as stepping stones to a better life; and the yearbooks will glow ever brighter illuminating u character striving to obey that great dictum, "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect."— M.C.S.
O^Jjidu TO THE FIELD
JLeaflets on dxealth, uiome I Lursing ana cfirst kA^ki
to be 'JjistriDutea in Q/eoruary[, igjfS
r^ONTINUING the century-long tides in the recommended hst of interest and activity of the Re- supphes and need only to take stock lief Society in health and nursing, of the supplies which are on hand, the General Board urges that all to assemble them in a receptacle families take precautions to preserve which is easy to carry and keep them health through such means as proper in a safe and readily accessible place, nutrition, adequate clothing and The leaflet includes excerpts, re- bedding, and general care, suggests printed with permission from the that all families, insofar as possible, American Red Cross First Aid Text provide themselves with first aid Book, describing the various articles supplies, and advises the women to recommended for the family first- take courses in first aid or home nurs- aid kit and explaining their uses, ing, or both, and to cooperate with Demonstration oi First-Aid Sup- their local Relief Societies in the es- pJies at February Work-and-Business tablishment of home nursing supply Meeting: All Relief Societies in war chests. These suggestions are of spe- risk areas, and all others desiring to cial importance during the present do so, are requested to conduct a war conditions because of possibility demonstration of the articles recom- of disaster or epidemic, and because mended for the family first-aid kit. of curtailment of hospital and nurs- This demonstration is scheduled ing service for civilians, making it for the February work-and-business necessary to depend to great extent meeting, unless otherwise an- on home nursing. Relief Society vis- nounced, and where possible is to be iting teachers, when making regular conducted by an individual ac- visits for the month of February, quainted with first-aid practices who will leave at each home a leaflet on will explain the use of the various these matters issued by the General articles and demonstrate the making Board of Relief Society. of triangular bandages and splints, so First-Aid Kits for Families: The that these articles can be made in leaflet contains a recommended list Relief Society work meeting (or in of first-aid supplies for families, not the home) and added to the family only those families in war risk areas first-aid kit along with articles which but families in all other areas as well, are purchased, for use in case of accident or house- Relief Society Home-Nursing Sup- hold emergencies. It is recognized ply Chest: The General Board rec- that it may not at all times be pos- ommends that every ward Relief So- sible to procure all the articles listed, ciety wherever located arrange to ac- but it is suggested that families pro- cumulate a supply of articles ordi- vide themselves with such articles narily needed for home nursing in and partial quantities as can be pro- case of sickness or disability, such cured. Many families doubtless al- articles to be either rented or loaned ready have on hand most of the ar- according to circumstances of fam-
Page 36
NOTES TO THE FIELD
37
ilies using the supply. Believing that many families have such articles which are not in use and which they would be willing to give or lend to Relief Society supply chests, partic- ularly at the present time when some articles cannot be procured by pur- chase, a survey form accompanies the leaflet to be distributed by visiting teachers in February upon which families may specify such articles as they would be willing to give or lend to such a home-nursing supply chest.
Adequate Bedding ioi Ml L. D. S. Families: During the past few years, many stake and ward Relief Soci- eties, at the suggestion of their re- spective Church Welfare Commit- tees, have conducted bedding pro- jects to encourage and assist all fam- ilies within their boundaries to be well equipped with good beds and bedding. The Relief Society now urges all families to make a follow- up check of their bedding facilities and make an effort to provide them- selves with any additional bedding which is needed. Comfortable and adequate bedding is particularly needed at this time because of cur- tailment of the fuel supply in many communities due to exigencies of war and because of the need for pro- tecting the health of every individu- al during this war period while nurs- ing and medical facilities and sup- plies are limited. Because of present conditions with respect to labor, ma- terials, and war production, only those bedding supplies which are currently needed should be pro- cured at this time. Suggestions have been issued to ward Relief Societies for cooperative plans whereby mem- bers supplying their own materials may have quilting done at Relief Society meetings.
Women Advised to Take Courses in First Aid and Home Nursing: The General Board of Relief Society again advises that all women able to do so take the Red Cross course in first aid or home nursing, or both. Many Relief Societies are arranging with the local Red Cross chapter for these courses to be given in the wards, and members may make in- quiry of their local Relief Society president or their local Red Cross chapter concerning such courses.
Other Reeommendations Applic- able Only in War Risk Areas: The General Board recommends that in war risk areas, ward Relief Societies procure ward first-aid supplies to be kept under jurisdiction of the Relief Society in ward meetinghouses. A recommended list of such supplies for these areas is contained in a bul- letin dated December 29, 1942 and sent to all stake, ward, and mission Relief Society presidents. This bul- letin also recommended that in war risk areas at least one woman in each stake be called to prepare herself as a Red Cross first-aid instructor who will conduct first-aid classes for the convenience of the women in the lo- cal wards of the stake. In these areas an additional survey is to be made by the visiting teachers in February to ascertain supplies which families would be able to make available, upon call of the ward Relief Society president, for use in case of emer- gency entailing temporary housing other than in homes. Accordingly, in sections considered by stake or mission authorities to be war risk areas, a special survey form for this purpose will accompany the leaflet to be distributed by the visiting teachers during the month of Feb- ruary.
38
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
[Petitions on Sdnfc
The General Board of Relief So- ciety is cooperating with the Nation- al Council of Women in petitioning the Office of Price Administration to require that goods bear informa- tive labels clearly stating what an article is, of what it is made, how it
or
ma live JLaheling
is made, what service it will give, and how it should be cared for. All Re- lief Society members in the United States can help achieve this desirable goal by signing petitions which will be explained and circulated at a Re- lief Society meeting.
Suggestive LProgram for Sunday fe
IN a letter dated April 26, 1942, the First Presidency designated the evening meeting of Fast Sundays for use by the auxiliary or- ganizations. At a meeting of the general executives of the auxiliaries, the Fast Sunday evening meetings of November and March were as- signed to Relief Society. Ward Re- lief Society presidents may therefore consult their respective bishops and ask for permission to arrange for a Relief Society meeting on the eve- ning of March 7, 1943. This is a very favorable Sunday on which to pre- sent a Relief Society program, com- ing as it does on the first Sunday of Relief Society anniversary month.
The General Board submits the following suggestive program for use on this evening. Wards desiring to plan their own programs are at lib- erty to do so.
Much of the material for the sug- gested program is drawn from The American Citizens Handbook rec- ommended for use in the social sci- ence course, ''What 'America' Means." The objective of the pro- gram is to show that the cause of freedom is the cause of Christ.
Democracy finds its fullest expression in the roots of religion, which has ever em- phasized the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of Man. For democracy to reach its highest fruition, our society must include that larger liberty preached so
ay KDvemng, 1 1 Larch 7, igj^S
eloquently by the Hebrew prophets and by Jesus. (American Citizens Handbook, page 16.)
As planned, the program will hon- or the boys in the service, their par- ents, wives, and children. It is sug- gested that seats be reserved at the meeting for the honored families and that Relief Society presidents consult their respective bishops con- cerning a display of pictures of ward members who are now in the serv- ice, if such pictures are not already on display in the chapel. The flag of our nation should also be promi- nently displayed. Mimeographed copies of the program for use by the audience would add greatly to the success of the program.
In order to insure a large attend- ance, it is recommended that visit- ing teachers on their regular Febru- ary visits invite all ward members to be present at this meeting and that advance announcements of this meeting be made in Relief Society and other ward gatherings. Relief So- ciety members should particularly be urged to attend. The patriotic theme of the program is timely and should appeal to all, both old and young.
The program will be more effec- tive if regular ward announcements to be made at the meeting are made preliminary to its presentation.
NOTES TO THE FIELD
39
Program
America, A Christian Nation
Latter-day Saint Concept of the Present Crisis
I. Opening Remarks (five minutes) -Member of Relief Society Presi- dency.
II. Hymn: ''America''— Congregation.
III. Invocation.
IV. Musical Selection.
V. Foreword— A Young Woman. VI. Talk: 'The American Way of Life is the Christian Way of Life." (lo minutes)— Member of Melchizedek Priesthood.
America is great because of the ideals which the pioneers estabhshed for its homes, for its schools, and for its democratic community hfe. — The American Citizens Handbook, p. 6.
VII. Singing: "Recessional/' by DeKoven— Relief Society Singing Moth- ers. VIII. Talk: "Our Church Stands Ever Ready to Defend the Cause of Freedom." (lo minutes)— Relief Society Officer or Member.
We wield not the bloody sword of man, brutal with conquest and drunk with power, but the white sword of God, flaming with His truth and healing while it slays. — From "Credo," The American Citizens Handbook, p. 71.
IX. Reading: "Credo" by Elias Lieberman, The American Citizens
Handbook, pages 70-71— Soldier (if available). X. Singing: Patriotic Number— Relief Society Singing Mothers. XL Talk: "Our Boys As Missionary-Soldiers." (5 minutes)— A Young
Woman.
I want every Latter-day Saint soldier to get down on his knees and pray God to help him to lead a clean life, and to preach the Gospel while he is in the Army. — Pres. Heber J. Grant, "Conference Address," October 5, 1941.
It grieves me deeply that it is necessary for thousands of our boys to go into the army, I hope and pray that they will go out with the missionary spirit, maintain their ideals, and come back to us as sweet and clean as when they went away. — Pres. Heber J. Grant, "Conference Address," April 1942.
XII. "Our Flag" (short tribute) -Boy Scout.
XIII. Singing: ''Star Spangled Banner"— Congregation.
XIV. Conclusion— A Young Woman.
America first, not merely in matters material, but in things of the spnit. — The American Citizens Handbook, p. 61.
XV. Benediction.
Suggestions for Presenting the Program
The above program may be pre- to the facilities of the various wards,
sented v^ith or without special seen- The opening remarks by a mem-
ic and lighting effects and with or ber of the ward Relief Society presi-
without special costumes according dency should briefly welcome those
40
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
in attendance, point out the theme and objective of the program and explain that it is the outgrowth of one of the Rehef Society courses of study of the past year, ''What 'America' Means." She should also announce that the families of ward members who are in the service are being honored, giving the number of ward members who are in the ser- vice.
It is suggested that the person who offers the invocation be advised in advance^ that the theme of the program is patriotic.
The foreword to be given by a young woman (in patriotic costume if desired) is adapted from "You, at This Moment," The American Citi- zens Handbook^ page 4, as follows:
You, at this moment, have the honor to belong to a generation whose lips have been touched by fire. The human race now passes through one of its greatest crises. New ideas, new issues, a new call for men to carry on the work of righteous- ness— all these have come and are daily coming to you.
When you are old, however, memory brings back this moment to your minds, let it be able to say to you That was a great moment.' This country in its crisis called for men and women of faith in God, of patience in service, of charity and of insight. I responded to the call however best I could. I gave myself to the Mas- ter, to the cause of humane and brave living.
For the talk "The American Way of Life is the Christian Way of Life," see The American Citizens Handbook, page 6, et passim; also an address by Elder Stephen L Rich- ards, Deseiet News, Church Edi- tion, June 6, 1942. The following excerpts from the address by Elder Richards are particularly appropriate for use in this talk:
This is a Christian nation. America had its inception in Christian principles and doctrines; it was founded, nurtured and built by Christian men and women, Christian concepts have been incorporat- ed into its basic laws and institutions and its loftiest ideals and purposes are but the expression of Christian virtue.
We hear a lot of talk nowadays about the American way of life. What is this American way of life? Is it anything oth- er than the Christian way of life? If it differs essentially, if it contemplates some- thing other than Christian liberty under law, then I'm not so enthusiastic to have my sons fight for it. I believe, however, that you will find on analysis that this American way of life we prize so highly is in reality a Christian concept .... Re- straints are supposed to be imposed by self-discipline rather than exterior force. People are free to make their own choices, endowed with a freedom that can be cur- tailed or limited only as may be necessary to assure the same freedom to all ... .
I make the assertion that we cannot hope to obtain that great spiritual support which we now so sorely need except upon the basis of truly Christian living. I think this to be so necessary because, as I in- terpret the issues at stake, we are really fighting a religious war. I think that our armies on the battlefields of the world and our civilian army here at • home are really fighting to preserve the cause of Christ in the earth. I know they may not be conscious of such an objective. I wish they were.
Since this talk is to be followed by the singing of "Recessional," it would be well for the speaker to re- fer to what usually happens when men forget their dependence upon God. She might even quote from the "Recessional," saying that it is to be sung following her talk.
Following the rendition of the "Recessional," the talk "Our Church Stands Ever Ready to Pre- serve the Cause of Freedom," is presented. In this talk it is suggested that the speaker explain how our Church has always stood by our
NOTES TO THE FIELD
41
country in her hour of need. Refer- ence could be made to the Mormon Battalion and the history connected with it. At this point, someone in the background representing Presi- dent Brigham Young might speak, first apparently addressing Captain Allen in these words:
You shall have your battalion, Captain Allen, and if there are not young men enough we will take the old men, and if they are not enough we will take the wom- en.
Brigham Young might next appear to address members of the Mormon Battalion as follows:
I want to say to every man, the con- stitution of the United States as framed by our Fathers was dictated, was revealed, was put into their hearts by the Al- mighty, and I tell you it is as good as ever I could ask for. I say unto you, magnify the laws. There is no law in the United States or in the Constitution but I am ready to make honorable.
Following the statements by Brig- ham Young, the speaker might con- tinue, pointing out that at the time of World War I, President Joseph F. Smith said:
I believe it is righteous and just for every people to defend their own hves and their own liberties, and their own homes, with the last drop of their blood. I be- lieve that the Lord will sustain any people trying to preserve their wives and their children from the ravages of war.
At the conclusion of the talk "Our Church Stands Ever Ready to De- fend the Cause of Freedom," the ''Credo" by Elias Lieberman, The American Citizens Handbook, pp. 70-71, would be very effective read by a soldier, if one is available— this to be followed by a patriotic num-
ber from the Relief Society Singing Mothers.
The talk ''Our Boys As Missionary- Soldiers," to be given by a young woman, could explain what some of the ideals are that can be fostered in service men by the girls at home. The following brief excerpt from a letter recently written to a mother by her son who is serving his country over- seas might be read:
I wish it were possible to tell you in person how much I depend upon my Heavenly Father for guidance and inspira- tion; how each day the Gospel means more and more to me. During these dis- tressing times and periods of temptation the principles which you and father have taught me through deeds and words are always before me, and they serve as a real stabilizer. I feel I am able to be tolerant without compromising; to segregate the good from the evil, for I understand the source. Humbly I feel that through the help of the Lord and you dear ones at home I am able to be an influence for good.
For the short tribute "Our Flag," which should precede the singing by the congregation of the "Star Spangled Banner," see the short ar- ticle, "Respect the Flag," The Amer- ican Citizens Handbook, p. 151. During this tribute, the flag, which has been in evidence during the evening, might be spotlighted and an electric fan used to make it wave as the congregation sings our national anthem.
At the conclusion of the singing, while the audience remains stand- ing, the same young woman who gave the foreword should give the conclusion, as follows:
America first, not merely in matters ma- terial, but in things of the spirit. Not merely in science, inventions, motors, and skyscrapers, but also in ideals, principles, and character. Not merely in the calm assertion of rights, but in the glad as-
42
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
sumption of duties. No flaunting her strength as a giant, but bending in help- fulness over a sick and wounded world like a Good Samaritan .... Not in tread- ing again the old, worn, bloody, pathway which ends inevitably in chaos and dis- aster, but in blazing a new trail along which, please God, other nations will fol- low, into the new Jerusalem where wars shall be no more. Some day, some na- tion must take that path — unless we are to lapse into utter barbarism — and that honor I covet for my beloved America. The Ameiican Citizens Handbook, p. 61. The speaker then looks heaven- ward as she voices this prayer by the poet Longfellow:
Lord, let war's tempest cease, Fold the whole world in peace Under Thy wings. Make all the nations one. All hearts beneath the sun. Till Thou shalt reign alone, Great King of Kings.
It is suggested that no closing song be sung and that the benediction follow Longfellow's prayer.
The estimated time required for the presentation of the complete program as outlined is one and one- half hours. It is suggested that wards desiring to give less time to the pre- sentation of the program either omit the talk, ''Our Boys As Missionary- Soldiers/' or combine its message with the talk, "Our Church Stands Ever Ready to Defend the Cause of Freedom." The tribute to the flag might also be eliminated in the in- terest of time.
Suggestions for appropriate musi- cal numbers will be found in The Reliei Society Magazine, December 1942, pp. 868-870.
IPubiication of JLeads for C^lass JLeaders ^Delayed
'pHE Reliei Society Magazine^ September 1942, pp. 640, 655, announced that a new book, "Leads for Class Leaders," to be issued by the Relief Society General Board, would be ready for use sometime during the fall, 1942.
The General Board sincerely re- grets that due to unavoidable cir-
cumstances work on the book was delayed, making publication impos- sible during the fall of 1942 as an- nounced. It is the present plan of the General Board to issue the book in time for use during the next edu- cational year, which begins in Octo- ber 1943.
iblder (Stephen JL Uxichards JLectures Kyver cKSJL
OEGINNING Sunday evenhig, December 27, 1942, and con- tinuing each Sunday for several weeks. Elder Stephen L Richards, of the Council of the Twelve, is deliver- ing on the regular Sunday evening broadcasting time of the Church, over radio station KSL, at 9:15 M.W.T., a series of lectures entitled "The Church in War and Peace." The broadcast originates in the
Tabernacle on Temple Square. Special vocal music is under the direction of J. Spencer Cornwall, director of the Tabernacle choir, with Alexander Schreiner, Taber- nacle organist, at the console of the great organ. This broadcast should be of interest and value to all Church members inasmuch as the lectures give Gospel interpretations of present-dav situations.
NOTES TO THE FIELD
43
lUessage of 3first [Presidency [PuUisked in ujookiet cyorm
'PHE message from the First Presi- dency delivered in the Taber- nacle, Saturday, October 3, 1942, during the opening session of the 113th Semi-Annual General Con- ference of the Church, has been pub- lished in convenient booklet form, size 3x4^'', and distributed to Lat- ter-day Saint families throughout the Church, to missionaries, and to Lat- ter-day Saint men in the service.
The General Board expresses its appreciation to the First Presidency for making this important message
available in such convenient and attractive form.
Relief Society members are urged to read the message carefully and thoughtfully, and it is suggested that mothers discuss it v^ith their families. The counsel and guidance given on drink and the Word of Wisdom, chastity, parenthood, unity, and the war are of vital importance to us to- day. The message to the men in the armed service, and the blessing, com- mendation, and comfort given to officers and members of the Church are of inestimable worth.
Uielief Society [Presidents to Encourage Use of ilev^ [Book, [Recreation in the cKi
OELIEF SOCIETY presidents are requested to cooperate in the distribution and use of the new book ''Recreation in the Home'' re- cently published by the General Boards of the auxiliary organizations of the Church.
Coming at a time when the use of automobiles is restricted and when other conditions incident to the war make it necessary for us to be re- sourceful and economical in our re- creational activities, the book meets a present-day need.
It contains many new games and many old favorites, and is fertile in suggestions for many other types of recreation. Games and other activ- ities included in the book can be played and enjoyed by large and small groups of all ages, with a mini- mum amount of equipment, work, and expense required.
ome
To aid in the distribution and use of the book, ward Relief Society presidents are asked to announce its publication at one of the regular Relief Society meetings, preferably a work-and-business meeting, calling attention to its content and its value for use in the home and for larger groups. It is also recommended that the book be used in planning Relief Society parties or other social activ- ities, thus demonstrating its value.
Relief Society officers and mem- bers should not only know that there is such a book, but should own and use it.
"Recreation in the Home'' may be purchased from the Relief Society General Board, 28 Bishop's Building, or from the general offices of the other Church auxiliary organiza- tions. Price 25 cents, postpaid.
44 RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
cJhe II Lormon uianaicraft Shop
n^HE Mormon Handicraft Shop is nancially, who would appreciate
your shop, estabhshed to help having a little extra money of her
Relief Society women. Are you sup- own to spend? This is made possible
porting it? There are three ways in by sending her articles to be sold,
which you can help the Shop: First, The second way in which you may
the Shop must have articles to sell, help the Shop is to buy there when-
*such as pillowcases with lovely white ever possible. When you need a dis-
crocheted edges, quilts, attractive tinctive handmade gift, reasonably
aprons, exquisite clothing for babies, priced, it can be found at the Shop,
useful hot pads, fine handkerchiefs, Remember, this is a day of advertis-
etc. When articles are beautifully ing. Never miss an opportunity to
made, of suitable, good material, and tell your neighbors and friends about
of desired colors, they will sell readi- Mormon Handicraft. Third, you
ly. The Shop can now use many may help the Shop by paying the an-
such articles. You can encourage nual membership fee of $i. Many
women to make these lovely articles of our wards are paying this yearly
to be sold. Have you found that fee, and in so doing are helping to
lonely sister or the one who is home- support this worthy project. May we
bound and have you encouraged her add your ward to our list of Mormon
to make some lovely and useful ar- Handicraft supporters? We feel,
tide? This interest would mean a especially, that wards in close proxi-
great deal in her life. How about the niity to the Shop should support it in
sister who needs to help herself fi- every possible way.
J/iuxiiiaryi JLeaaers ^Protest Lrictunzation of
Smoking ana jDnnking
T TNDER date of November 14, 1942, the following letter signed by the general presidencies and superintendencies of the Church auxiliary organizations, was sent to Mr. Will H. Hays, of the nation's film industry, protesting the picturization of smoking, drinking, and vulgarity in films. These auxiliary leaders represent a total active membership of 747,688 men, women, and children. The increasing use in motion pictures of tobacco and alcoholic beverages is alarming, and it is in recognition of the effect of this upon youth that the auxiliary leaders ask that an effort be made to eliminate these items from the films as far as possible:
Mr. Will H. Hays November 14, 1942
28 West 44th Street New York, New York
Dear Mr. Hays:
For some time the auxiliary organizations of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints have been alarmed at the increasing use in motion pictures of alcoholic bev- erages and tobacco. By the constant presentation of drinking and smoking on the screen the wholesome resistance of youth and childhood is being broken down.
NOTES TO THE FIELD 45
Drama is one of the cultural fields with which we have full sympathy and in which some of our organizations work extensively among the young people. We know of the immense influence of dramatic representation on the human mind. It is conceded that in some situations the use of tobacco and liquor might legitimately give a truer picture of life, although our own standards lead us to ban these articles from the stage. Inci- dentally, we have been pleased to see that plays do not suffer thereby. A talented group of professional and amateur players recently put on "The Man Who Came to Dinner," without smoking, drinking, profanity or vulgarity, and without lessening, strange as it may seem, the humor m the shghtest. We know, therefore, that a great decrease in the use of tobacco and alcohol on the stage can be accomplished if there is the will to do it, and we earnestly petition you to set standards that will reduce these harmful things to the minimum.
Although most states, perhaps all, have statutes forbidding the use of tobacco or alcoholic drinks by minors, yet whenever a drink is taken in a play, or cigarette lighted, especially by actors who represent to the young patrons almost everything desirable in life, a definite impact is made on their resistance to observe the law.
The liquor and tobacco interests know the power of such example and of course do everything to extend the use of these articles in the business of the play. It is most unfortunate that the great institution of motion pictures, with its immeasurable educa- tional and character forming influence, should be used to promote this evil. That is truly a breach of its great trust.
Our responsibility to childhood and youth besides giving them the spiritual train- ing to prepare them for eternal life, includes the endeavor to help them be healthy, temperate, upright and clean. Alcohol and tobacco, with their degenerative effects en- danger both objectives.
We commend you for all the fine things that you have done — the elimination of profanity, for example. And now in the name of our youth and of all American youth we appeal to you, who bear so much moral responsibility in this phase of our recreational life, to look into this situation and answer to your conscience as the good American that you are. We believe the wrong done to impressionable young people will tend to de- bauch individuals and bring about a poorer grade of American manhood and woman- hood. Those who love America will support you in the action we plead with you to take.
GENERAL PRESIDENCY OF THE NATIONAL WOMAN'S RELIEF SOCIETY, By Amy Brown Lyman, President, Representing 115,015 mothers
GENERAL SUPERINTENDENCY OF THE SUNDAY SCHOOL UNION, By George D. Pyper, General Superintendent, Representing 360,337 members of all ages.
GENERAL PRESIDENCY OF THE YOUNG WOMEN'S MUTUAL
IMPROVEMENT ASS'N., By Lucy Grant Cannon, President, Representing 76,867 young women.
GENERAL SUPERINTENDENCY OF THE YOUNG MEN'S MUTUAL
IMPROVEMENT ASS'N. By George Q. Morris, General Superintendent, Representing 65,511 young men
GENERAL PRESIDENCY OF THE PRIMARY ASS'N., By May Green Hinckley, Superintendent, Representing 129,958 children and teachers.
The Church Campaign Committee, of which Elder Joseph F. Merrill is chairman, recommends that the above letter be followed up in the stakes, wards, and missions by personal letters from leaders and other individuals, and that contact be made with managers of show houses requesting them to write to Mr. Hays supporting the position that has been taken by the leaders of the Church auxiliaries.
Point Rationing
Note: The following information from Justin C. Stewart, Utah State Information
Officer, Office of Price Administration, is of interest to ReHef Society women:
V\riTH the introduction of ''point a few ounces a month, too little to
rationing" early in 1943, con- do anyone any good, sumers must learn to shop with a This also might mean a buying new kind of currency— ration points, rush on cornflakes by those who This will not take the place of our usually buy larger amounts of bran- accustomed money and tax tokens, flakes than would be allowed by the but will be in addition to them, ration. Or it might mean a rush to When buying, the housewife must buy oatmeal or wheatflakes, and thus know the ration point value of each the supply of these cereals might commodity as well as the money quickly disappear from the stores, value. and many people wouldn't get any
Point rationing will be accom- cereals at all.
plished through the use of War Ra- This illustrates that while dividing
tion Book No. 2 which will be is- the supply of any one of the cereals
sued to all consumers shortly after would give each individual only a
the first of the year. It will be used small equal share, dividing the total
to ration groups of related or similar supply of all of them would give each
commodities which can be sub- individual enough for his basic cereal
stituted for one another in actual needs.
use. It will not replace the straight If we were rationing cereals under coupon system for such goods as the point system, all types could be sugar, because that system is more purchased by using the same ration appropriate for standardized commo- coupons. However, each kind of dities used by everyone and of which cereal would be given a point value, there is a large enough supply to give A low-point value would be given to everyone a usable share. the more plentiful items and a high- Cereals might be used as an ex- point value to the less plentiful ones, ample of how point rationing will Each person would then be allowed, work, although there is no present for example, 48 points to buy cereal plan to ration them. Oatmeal, corn- during the month. Suppose corn- flakes, wheatflakes, and branflakes flakes are plentiful and are assigned are related commodities which can a value of one point per pound; the be substituted for one another in the supply of wheatflakes is a little less daily diet. Suppose that there were plentiful and is assigned two points a shortage of branflakes and the Gov- per pound; and branflakes very ernment was to try to ration them scarce, hardly available at all, are as- as it rations sugar— that is, an equal signed eight points per pound. In amount for everyone each month, this example, the individual could Because of the shortage, and because buy two pounds of cornflakes and branflakes would thus be allotted to surrender only two of his 48 ration people who don't buy them regular- points. On the other hand, if he ly at all, the result would be a very purchased two pounds of branflakes, small share for each individual, just he would have to surrender 16 of the
Page 46
POINT RATIONING
47
48. Thus consumers will be dis- couraged from buying the high-point value commodities that are scarce and will be encouraged to buy the low-point value commodities of which there are large supplies.
The Government will be able to change the point value from time to time acording to the supply of the various commodities, thus insuring the fairest possible distribution of goods.
Ration Book No. 2 will have stamps of two colors, blue and red. One color might be used for meat. The other color for some other group or related commodities, such as cereals. Each stamp will have a let- ter of the alphabet marked on it— "A" through "Z." These letters will be used to indicate the time in which the stamps should be used. There will be four "A" stamps, four "B" stamps, four ''C" stamps, etc. One of the "A" stamps will be marked with the figure 1; one of them, the figure 2; one, 5; and one, 8. The numbers will indicate the point value of the stamps. Thus the four *'A" stamps, which will be numbered 1, 2, 5, 8, will have a total point value of 16; the four ''B" stamps a total point value of 16; the four ''C" stamps a total point value of 16, etc.
Suppose the A, B, and C stamps are allowed for the first month of cereal rationing. We should have a total point value of 16 'W stamps, 16 "B" stamps, 16 ''C stamps, a grand total of ration points for the
month of 48. The followhig month, stamps marked D, E, and F might be used, thus giving a 48 point ration for the second month.
In this way, each consumer may ''spend" his points to buy any of the items in the point ration group in any way he likes, but when he has ''spent" all of his points for the month, he will not be able to buy any of these items until the next ra- tion period. Those who choose to buy commodities having a low-point value will get more for their ration than those who choose to use up their points on high-point value com- modities. When buying, therefore, consumers must ask themselves not only whether they can afford the dol- lars and cents price of rationed com- modities, but also whether they can afford to "spend" their points in that particular way. This will require careful budgeting of both money and ration points.
At the same time, planning must not be too rigid. There is no pos- sibility in wartime of guaranteeing that the storekeeper will have all of the favorite standbys on hand at all times. There may be a smaller sup- ply than usual or a larger demand than was expected. It may be found that some of the favorite items in a group are not "best buys" in ration value. In that case, in order to get the most out of her family's point allotment, the housewife will find it desirable at times to buy "second choices."
THE SUCCESSFUL WAY
Doing an injury puts you below your enemy; revenging one makes you but even with him; forgiving it sets you above him.— Ben/amin Franklin.
^JSV'^
FROM THE FIELD
Vera White Pohlmaiiy General Secretary-Treasurer
Regulations governing the submittal of material for "Notes From the Field" appear in the Magazine for June 1942, page 420.
RELIEF SOCIETY CENTENNIAL OBSERVANCES
Juab Stake (Nephi, Utah)
pOLLOWING is an account of the centennial observance of the Juab Stake Relief Society, of which Chloe N. Bailey is president, which appeared in the Nephi Times News:
"The observance of the ReHef So- ciety centennial was held in local wards of Juab Stake on March 17. Through the courtesy of the General Board of Relief Society, a centen- nial gift was presented to each ward in the form of a phonograph record containing centennial messages from President Heber J. Grant and Presi- dent Amy Brown Lyman.
"The North Ward Relief Society planted a tree in accordance with the recommendation of the General Board. A short program was given in connection with the tree-planting on Tuesday afternoon, March 17. Talks were given byA. E.Smith, bish- op, and Robert P. Garrett, counselor. The record sent by the General Board was played. The tree, a cut- leaf weeping white birch, was plant- ed on the North Ward Relief Soci- ety grounds.
"On Tuesday evening, a pageant. The Gate Beautiful' was presented by the North Ward Relief Society to members of the three Nephi wards. The pageant was under the supervision of President Mary E. Boswell and was directed by Ellen
Page 48
Garrett, Fern B. Garrett, and Minnie J. Smith. Music was furnished by the Monson sisters of American Fork, a quartet consisting of Afton Lambert, Emma C. Cannon, Eugene Beck, and Nello Sudweeks, which sang appropriate selections, and solos were given by Verda Beck and Em- ma C. Cannon. Mrs. Douglas Jones was the reader, and members of the cast were Relief Society women of the North Ward. The pageant was a most creditable performance.
"The Nephi Ward observed the centennial with an appropriate pro- gram which consisted of an account of the first Relief Society organiza- tion given by Birdie C. Jones; hum- orous selections by Florence R. Winn; a duet by Susannah and May Wilkey; cello solo, Vivian Hoyt; tribute to former presidents of the Nephi Ward Relief Society, given by Priscilla Wilson. Each president was presented with a flower. A read- ing, 1 Am Proud' was given by Mrs. Douglas Jones. Mrs. Laura B. Brough made an interesting report of changes in transportation, dress, home conveniences and status of women during the one hundred years since the founding of Relief Society. A chorus of Singing Moth- ers rendered two selections. . . .
"In the South Ward an address of welcome was given by counselor
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
49
CENTENNIAL PAGEANT, "THE GATE BEAUTIFUL" Woodruff Ward Relief Society, Snowflake Stake
Jennie Hobbs. Former stake presi- dents, Addie Cazier, Unity Chap- pell, Maude Forrest, and Edna J. Cazier gave brief reports of the ac- complishments of the Rehef Society of Juab Stake under their respective administrations. A piano duet was given by Julia and Mignon Pyper, and Zelma Golden and Ida Mem- mott sang a duet. A centennial play 'Is It Possible?' was presented under the direction of Louise C. Vickers. Flowers were presented to the form- er stake and ward presidents and counselors, to the oldest visiting teacher, the youngest members of the Relief Society, and to the mother vdth the largest family. At the close of the program, refreshments were served.
"The Mona Ward observed the centennial by a social held in the afternoon for all women of the ward.
at which time the record from the General Board was heard and birth- day cake was served to all present. In the evening, the play Ts it Possible?' and a pageant 'By Their Fruits Ye Shall Know Them' were presented by the women of the ward. The Singing Mothers furnished the music for the performance. The play and pageant were under the direction of Lizzie W. Kay and Erma Keyte."
Snowflake Stake (Snowflake, Arizona)
T OVINA E. LARSON, president ^ of Woodruff Ward Relief So- ciety, sent the accompanying pic- ture of a beautiful and impressive pageant presented February 13, 1942, at the ward centennial celebration. It was entitled "The Gate Beautiful."
50
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
SINGING MOTHERS' CHORUS, NORTH IDAHO FALLS STAKE RELIEF
SOCIETY
CAST OF CENTENNIAL PAGEANT, "MOTHERS AND DAUGHTERS OF
THE AGES," IDAHO FALLS FOURTH WARD RELIEF
SOCIETY, NORTH IDAHO FALLS STAKE
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
51
North Idaho Falls Stake (Idaho Falls, Idaho)
yELLA A. EVANS, second coun- selor in the Relief Society presi- dency of the North Idaho Falls Stake, submitted the following re- port of centennial activities in this stake:
''We wish to report to you some of the centennial activities of our stake. We presented the cantata 'Resurrection Morning,' by B. Cecil Gates, as a stake unit of one hundred Singing Mothers. The chorus furn- ished the music for our stake confer- ence. The cantata, conducted by Mrs. O. D. Hendrickson with Mrs. J. O. Mellor as accompanist, was pre- sented Sunday afternoon, March 1 5, 1942, in the stake tabernacle. It was very well rendered to a large audi- ence. We had members participat- ing from eleven of the twelve wards and branches— one branch being sixty-three miles away. We held a prayer meeting with all chorus mem- bers before the concert, and then presented each member with a golden boutonniere, and the chor- ister and organist with a blue and gold corsage.
"At this meeting we displayed the scrapbooks made by eleven of our twelve wards and branches. In their arrangement the books showed much originality, artistic ability, and his- torical worth. A volume of Gospel Standards by President Heber J. Grant was presented, to the cen- tennial chairman of the Ucon Ward as a prize for the best scrapbook.
"On Monday, March 16, we left daffodils with twelve Latter-day Saint mothers, reminding them of the centennial observance the next day and of the time of the radio
broadcasts from Salt Lake City. From the interest shovm by these mothers, we certainly felt well re- paid for the calls we made.
"On March 17, the Idaho Falls Fourth Ward held a special cen- tennial program with President Luna Norton and counselors in charge of arrangements. Under the direction of Mrs. Jacob H. Trayner, with Mr. Trayner as reader, a pageant in twelve scenes, entitled 'Mothers and Daugh- ters of the Ages,' was presented with special costumes and lighting effects to a full house. Mrs. J. O. Mellor, pianist, and Dorothy Burnham, vio- linist, rendered appropriate music during the pageant. Twenty-six per- sons represented the various charac- ters portrayed. One scene showed a reproduction in giant size of the cover of the January 1942 issue of
Reproduction of cover of January 1942
Relief Society Magazine, used in pageant
by Idaho Falls Fourth Ward Relief
Society
52
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
CENTENNIAL TREE-PLANTING CEREMONY ON NEW IDAHO FALLS
TEMPLE GROUNDS, NOVEMBER 4, 1942
Members and officials of the North Idaho Falls, Idaho Falls, and Yellowstone Stakes
participated.
the Reliei Society Magazine, which was a picture of the proposed cen- tennial memorial campanile to be erected on Temple Square in Salt Lake City.
''The Osgood Ward made nearly 200 handprinted programs for their celebration. The entire evening per- formance in this ward was very fine and well presented.
"All Relief Society organizations in our stake participated in a cen- tennial tree-planting service in their respective wards, using the centen- nial markers."
On November 4, 1942, members and officials of the North Idaho Falls, Idaho Falls, and Yellowstone Stakes participated in a tree-planting ceremony at the new Idaho Falls Temple grounds. A beautiful blue
spruce was planted on the north- east corner of the grounds, and a spe- cial marker was placed nearby. An ex- cerpt from an account of this activity in the Idaho Falls Post-Register of November 12 states:
The following program was presented: community singing conducted by Mrs. J. O. Mellor; invocation by Mrs. Grant M. Andrus; address of welcome by president Ethd Miles [North Idaho Falls Stake Re- lief Society president]; selection by a trumpet trio composed of Don Julian, Ray Bennett and Fred Haroldsen; a talk, "Spe- cial Thoughts on Trees," by Mrs. Joseph Brunt; dedicatory prayer by Joseph A. Brunt. Mr. Brunt, representing the North Idaho Falls Stake, J. W. Telford, repre- senting the Idaho Falls Stake, and Horace A. Hess of the Yellowstone Stake, assisted in placing the soil on the tree. Mrs. Miles, President Cora Christensen of the Idaho Falls Stake Relief Society, past stake presi- dents, and honorary officers also participated
NOTES FROM THE FIELD 53
in the ceremonies. The program was un- McCleary, coordinator, assisting her.
der the direction of Mrs. G S. Evans, Each new member of the past year
assisted by Robert F. WoUer, temple . , .^i , v j;' c»l jrw*
gardener. ' f was presented with a lovely corsage.
"Another feature of the evening's
Sister Evans stated in a subse- entertainment was a cantata entitled
quent letter of November 23 that, ^Messengers of Mercy,' by Gladys
"We are very thankful to Brother Rich and Minnie D. Warner, pre-
Woller, the temple gardner, and sented by the Singing Mothers under
Brother Irvin T. Nelson, Church the direction of Sarah Hickman,
landscape architect, for assisting us with Mercia Haneberg as accom-
and granting us this privilege. We panist. A very lovely pageant, 'The
had had stormy weather for several Guardianship of Life,' was presented
days, but the morning [of Novem- under the direction of Rose Willey
ber 4] was clear, although cold. The and President Chloe Later. It had
program was short but well attended a cast of about twenty people. Violet
by approximately 100 people, and Nerden, soloist, was accompanied by
everyone seemed thrilled v^th the Alta Larson. Thelma Higbee was
occasion. After the ceremony, the the reader.
members who wished to go were es- "One feature of the program, the
corted through the temple. We words of greeting by recording from
surely felt that the efforts were worth President Heber }. Grant and Presi-
while." dent Amy Brown Lyman, was great- ly appreciated. Ethelyn Lay and
Seattie Stake (Seattle, Washington) Chloe Stayner had charge of refresh-
TTT 1 T^ 1. r o ments. The one hundred people
J»HE Bremerton Ward Relief So- present declared that the party was
ciety reported its centennial one of the loveliest ones of the year." birthday party, held March 17, 1942,
as follows: Los Angeles Stake
"The ward chapel and recr^tion ^^os Angeles, Cdifomia) hall were decorated in the Relief ^ o ' / Society colors— blue and gold. The HpHE Beverly Hills Ward Relief So- opening feature of the celebration ciety, of which Estella C. Dalton was a tree-planting ceremony, at was president, presented a unique which time we planted a tree on the centennial program using letters, tab- chapel grounds. Appropriate re- leaux, and a cantata to depict "Re- marks were made by Bishop John J. lief Society Beginnings" and "A Cen- Fry, and the song Trees' was sung tury of Achievement." Helen Cot- by Ruth Fry. tam, secretary, reported the observ-
"After this ceremony, everyone ance as follows: went into the chapel, where an im- "Letters narrating 'Relief Society pressive birthday cake held a place Beginnings' were written for the oc- of attention, and a candle-lighting casion by one of our members, Isa- ceremony was given in honor of new bel Vine Broadbeck. They were members. Our president, Chloe read by a reader dressed in a typical Later, presided, with Linda Edding- 1842 costume, who was shown writ- ton, second counselor, and Bertha ing them in her Nauvoo home. Be-
54
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
tween the reading of each letter, our Relief Society chorus, assisted by Lola Brimley, director, Mary Rex, accompanist, and Jessie Turner, solo- ist, sang selections from the cantata 'Messengers of Mercy,' by Gladys Rich and Minnie D. Warner. In conjunction with the readings and the rendition of the cantata, tableaux in costume and with stage properties were presented to show scenes re- lated to the letters."
An original poem, "A Century of Achievement," written by Alva Wil- son, was given by two women, Emma Gardner representing Emma Smith, and Ruby Armstrong representing a modern Relief Society president. This was given just before the final tableau depicting "Women of Serv- ice in 1942." Estella C. Dal ton, former president, is now president of the Los Angeles Stake Relief So- ciety, and Frances Willardson is president of the Beverly Hills Ward.
South Sanpete Stake (Manti, Utah)
PLARICE B. TUTTLE, former president of the South Sanpete Stake Relief Society, submitted a newspaper report of the very success- ful centennial observance held by the three wards of Manti, and also a re- port from the three Ephraim wards. The Manti Messenger contained the following account of the Manti cele- bration :
Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday [March 15, 16, 17, 1942] were gala days for the Relief Society organizations of Manti, cul- minating years of untiring and ceaseless effort directed toward building a bigger and better organization, an effort which has been crowned with glorious success.
Officers and teachers have worked ener- getically to prepare the three-day celebra- tion in honor of the centennial observance
of the L. D. S. Relief Society. Their efforts resulted in one of Manti's most elaborate celebrations, enjoyed by old and young of the entire community.
Commencing Sunday night, a cantata, "Resurrection Morning," written by B. Cecil Gates, was presented to the general pubhc by the Singing Mothers of the three wards, under the direction of Cleo Christensen, with Mrs. Louise Hulme at the piano. Mrs. Bernice B. Keeler and Mrs. Leona F. Wintch were the readers.
Before the cantata, Mrs. Clarice B. Tut- tle . . . gave a speech of welcome. A salute to the Relief Socitey was given by President Leland E. Anderson, the re- sponse by Mrs. Merle Poulson, president of the Center Ward Rehef Society. Mrs. Viola Tatton was in charge of decorations.
Monday afternoon a reception and pro- gram was held in the Center Ward Chapel, with so many in attendance that benches and chairs would not suffice. A fashion show depicting styles from 1842 to 1942 was directed by Mrs. Ruby K. Riddle. . . . Mrs. Alfreda Nielson was in charge of the music and refreshments.
Monday night a married folks' dance was held in the Armada. It was one of the biggest dances of the year, and one of the most enjoyable. Many of the dancers came in costumes, which varied in kind and color from the humble overall to the dignified Prince Albert, and from the house dress of years gone by to the colorful gown of the gay nineties.
Tuesday morning, a throng of people visited the temple, where the Singing Mothers furnished the music. Tuesday afternoon and evening in the Manti Theatre a pageant, "By Their Fruits Ye Shall Know Them," written by Moroni Smith of Richfield, was presented. Mrs. Ada Dyreng was in charge of the pageant, as- sisted by Mrs. Edna Allred and Mrs. Blanche Garbe. Taking part in the pag- eant were sixty people. Singing for the pageant was done by the Singing Mothers directed by Mrs. Cleo Christensen.
The three-day Ephraim observ- ance was also very successful. The first session was held Sunday evening, March 15, in the tabernacle, under the direction of Anna Rasmusson
NOTES FRCWvi THE FIELD
55
FIRST EPISODE OF PAGEANT, "BY THEIR FRUITS YE SHALL KNOW THEM," MANTI WARDS, SOUTH SANPETE STAKE RELIEF SOCIETY Leona F. Wintch, Relief Society General Board member, is in front row, center, repre- senting Emma Smith; on her right is Winston Crawford representing Joseph Smith
FOURTH EPISODE OF PAGEANT, "BY THEIR FRUITS YE SHALL KNOW THEM," INCLUDING SINGING MOTHERS WHO SANG FOR THE PAGEANT
56
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
of the stake board. Seventy-five Sing- ing Mothers wearing white blouses made an impressive sight when they sang "Resurrection Morning." They were assisted by Melba Armstrong, conductor, and Phyhs Armstrong, ac- companist. The stage setting was appropriate for the rendition of the cantata. The bishops of the Eph- raim North, South and West Wards offered the prayers and also assisted backstage. Under the direction of Olivia Anderson of the stake board, general chairman, the activities on Monday afternoon featured a relic display, modeling of old hats and costumes of long ago, dancing of the minuet, and singing of old-time songs. ''Sister-cake" with its carda- mon flavor, peppermint candy, dried apples, and punch were served by ladies in costume.
Tuesday, March 17, members from the Ephraim West Ward attended
the morning session at the Manti Temple. In the afternoon, three in- spirational episodes were enacted under the supervision of Vera Erick- son of the stake board. They were: first, dramatization of the organiza- tion meeting of Relief Society; sec- ond, an episode emphasizing the im- portance of attendance at Relief So- ciety, in which was dramatized the story of two young women who never found time to support Relief So- ciety; and, third, a pantomime of na- tions coming through a membership arch. After this episode, candles on a centennial cake were lighted. This cake was made of seven pounds of popcorn.
According to the report from the Ephraim wards, the costs incurred in conducting this three-day celebra- tion were very low. Anna Rasmus- son is now president of the South Sanpete Stake.
CENTENNIAL CANDLE-LIGHTING CEREMONY Brigham City Third Ward Rdicf Society, Box Elder Stake
LESSON
DEPARTMENT
oJheologyi and c/esttmonif
''Articles of Faith," By James E. Talmage
Lesson 15
The Book of Mormon (Continued)
Article 8: "... we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the
word of God."
(Tuesday, April 6, 1943)
Condensation of Chapter XV of Aiticks of Faith by Talmage
(This condensation is placed in the Magazine in the hope that it will result in more class members familiarizing themselves with the lesson.)
7'he Authenticity of the Book of Mormon
The authenticity of the Book of Mormon constitutes our most im- portant consideration of the work. Announcing to the .world the mes- sage of a departed people, written by way of commandment, and by the spirit of prophecy and revelation, this book is entitled to the most thorough and impartial examination. The Latter-day Saints base their be- lief in the authenticity of the book on the following proofs which will be discussed:
1. The Nephite and the Jewish scriptures are found to agree in mat- ters of tradition, history, doctrine, and prophecy which the separate records treat. In a careful compari- son of the prophecies of the Bible with corresponding predictions con- tained in the Book of Mormon, each of the records is corroborative of the other.
2. Ancient prophecy has been literally fulfilled in the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. Enoch (Pearl of Great Price, Moses 7:59- 62), David (Psalms 85:11), Isaiah (Isaiah 45:8), and Ezekiel (Ezekiel 37), as well as other prophets knew and prophecied of the book. Ezekiel 37:15-17, reads: "The word of the Lord came unto me, saying. More- over, thou son of man, take thee one stick, and write upon it. For Judah, and for the children of Israel his companions [signifying the Bible] : then take another stick, and write upon it. For Joseph, the stick of Ephraim, and for all the house of Israel his companions [signifying the Book of Mormon] : And join them one to another into one stick; and they shall become one in thine hand."
3. The internal consistency of the Book of Mormon sustains belief in
Page 57
58
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
its divine origin. The parts bear evidence of having been w^ritten at different times and under v^idely varying conditions. The book main- tains consistency throughout; no contradictions, no disagreements have been pointed out.
4. Among the most conclusive proofs of the authenticity of the book is that furnished by the dem- onstrated truth of its contained prophecies. The predictions con- tained within the Book of Mormon may be classed as (a) prophecies re- lating to the time covered by the book itself, the fulfillment of which is recorded therein; and (b) proph- ecies relative to times beyond the limits of the history chronicled in the book.
Prophecies of the first class named are of minor value as proof of the authenticity of the work; neverthe- less, to the conscientious reader the genuineness of the book will be made apparent in the literal realization of the numerous and varied predictions relating to the fate, then future, of the people whose history is given in the record. Prophecies of the sec- ond class are numerous and explicit. Many of them have special reference to this last dispensation— the Dis- pensation of the Fullness of Times. Among the most remarkable Book of Mormon predictions incident to the last dispensation are those that relate to its own coming forth and the effect of its publication amongst mankind. Joseph's great prophetic utterance is to be found in part in II Nephi 3:11-13. The literal ful- fillment of this prophecy in the bringing forth of the Book of Mor- mon through Joseph Smith is well evidenced. That the new scriptures would be rejected by the Gentiles
was known by Nephi, who recorded this: ''A Bible! a Bible! we have got a Bible, and there cannot be any more Bible.'' (II Nephi 29:3; read the entire chapter.)
5. The archeology and ethnology of the Western Continent contrib- ute some corroborative evidence in support of the Book of Mormon. Among the most significant of the discoveries respecting the aboriginal inhabitants of the land, are the fol- lowing: (a) that America was peo- pled in very ancient times, probably soon after the building of the Tower of Babel; (b) that the continent has been successfully occupied by differ- ent peoples, at least by two classes, or so-called races, at widely separated periods; (c) that the aboriginal in- habitants came from the East, prob- ably from Asia, and that the latter occupants, or those of the second period, were closely allied to, if not identified with, the Israelites; (d) that the existing native races of America form a common stock.
It is very apparent that each of these discoveries is fully sustained by the Book of Mormon record.
Let not the reader of the Book of Mormon content himself with such evidences as have been cited con- cerning the authenticity of this re- puted scripture. There is promised a surer and more effectual means of ascertaining the truth or falsity of this volume. Like other scriptures, the Book of Mormon is to be com- prehended through the spirit of the scripture, and this is obtainable only as a gift from God. But this gift is promised unto all who shall seek it. Then to all let us commend the counsel of the last writer in the vol- ume, Moroni, solitary scribe who
LESSON DEPARTMENT
59
sealed the book: "And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eter- nal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with
real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost. And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things." (Moroni 10:4-5)
LESSON PLAN
Lesson Aim: To prove the authenticity of the Book of Mormon
Suggested Material Outline
L Proofs of the authenticity of the Book of Mormon
A. Agreement of the Bible and the Book of Mormon
1 . Records agree in matters of tradition, history, doc- trine and prophecy (See Appendix 14:5)
B. Prophecies concerning the Book of Mormon
1. EzekieFs vision most significant (Ezekiel 37)
2. Isaiah's prediction literal- ly fulfilled ( Isaiah 29 : 1 1-
12)
C. Internal construction of the Book of Mormon
This concerns the doctrinal unity of the book, its consistency of language, its general harmony and Joseph Smith's inabihty to compose such a work without divine help.
D. Book of Mormon predic- tions
1. Prophecies fulfilled in the Book of Mormon
2. Future prophecies not yet fulfilled (See II Nephi 3:11-13; II Nephi 29)
E. Archaeology of the Western Continent
1. Value of external evi- dence Sometimes we are inclined to lay too much stress on external evi-
dence, as if it were conclusive, whereas it only shows a tendency in the direction of the truth of personal testimony.
2. Evidence of American antiquities
a. Civilization here be- fore discovery of America by Columbus
b. This civilization com- parable to that which existed in the Old World
c. Monuments are found where Book of Mor- mon requires them to be
d. Evidences of succes- sive civilizations in an- cient America
F. The classes of American aborigines (1.) Archaic (2.) Tol tec-Mayan (3.) Aztec
Suggested Method Outline
I. It is suggested that class mem- bers who are capable and who do research well, be assigned, at least a month in advance of presentation, the five major sec- tions of this lesson outline. In making such assignments, it is suggested that the class leader
(0
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
bear in mind he following pro- cedure:
A. Enough time should be spent with the class mem- ber assigned the task to make the assignment very clear. If necessary, the as- signment should be written out by the class leader, and then the member should be given time to ask questions concerning her assignment.
B. Class leaders should make the time limit explicit. This is very important if the les- son is fully covered in the time allotted.
C. Class leaders should be re- sponsible for seeing that ma- terial for use in the prepara- tion of assignments is avail- able.
D. Some follow-through on the assignment should be made by the class leader to check
on the progress of each as- signment, and this should be done before the actual day of presentation. II. Class leaders should allow themselves time to summarize the major points of the lesson in order to make a unified whole and to increase learning. Part of this summary could be gathered from the class by skillful questioning. (Consult any book on teaching methods for help on how to formulate questions. If a blackboard is available, it would be helpful to list thereon the major points covered in the lesson.)
References
Roberts, B. H., A Comprehensive His- tory of the Church, Vol. I.
Talmage, James E., Sunday Night Talks.
Thompson, E. H., People of the Serpent.
Talmage, James E., Aiticles of Faith, ''Appendix" 1 5, Notes Relating to Chap. 1 5
>
ViSiting cJeachers
Messages to the Home
Lesson 7
Care of the Body as an Expression of Faith
(Tuesday, April 6, 1943)
T ATTER-DAY SAINTS attach great importance to the proper care of the body. No one can attain his highest usefulness, happiness, or intelligence, who injures his body by improper living.
In the Doctrine and Covenants there are many revelations regarding the human body and its importance as an instrument of the mind. *The
in-
spirit and the body," we are formed, "are the soul of man." (Sec- tion 88:15) And in another place we read that the spirit manifests itself through the body. Therefore, the physical condition of the body either facilitates or hampers expres- sion of the spirit.
Such things as food, clothing, proper housing and living conditions
LESSON DEPARTMENT
61
are ''given to strengthen the body and enhven the soul." (Doctrine and Covenants 59:19) Section 88: 124 gives instructions for the main- tenance of the body. ''Cease to be idle; cease to be unclean; . . . cease to sleep longer than is needful; retire to thy bed early, that ye may not be weary; arise early, that your bodies and your minds may be invigor- ated."
Then there is the Word of Wis- dom (Section 89), which offers specific instructions : tobacco, strong or hot drinks/ excessive meat eating are "not good for man;" while fruit in the season thereof is good for the use of man, and wheat is specially "for man."
Obedience to these teachings is at- tended by certain blessings.
There are also revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants which in- dicate that the care of the body is a religious duty.
The attitude of the mind and the emotions one cultivates have an ef- fect on the health of the body. This fact was enunciated by Jesus and it
^Discourses oi Brfgham Young, page 283, makes clear that President Brigham Young regarded tea and coffee among the hot drinks referred to in Doctrine and Cove- nants, Section 88.
finds ample justification, if any is needed, in what we know from the study of the body. Christ assures us that fear, anger, hate, with kindred emotions, are a source of injury. He puts it theologically: "Thou shalt not be angry with thy brother." But science gives us the reason. Says Herbert Spencer, in his Data of Ethics: "From biology we learn that no act should be committed or thought entertained which weakens the body, for thereby the human be- ing is rendered unfit for the duties of hfe."
Obedience to the laws of health, both those revealed through religion and those discovered by man in his search for truth, express our faith in the teachings of the Church so far as concerns the sanctity of the body.
Discussion
1. What should be the attitude of all citizens toward community health?
2. In what ways can women cooperate with the civil authorities in maintaining healthy conditions in the community?
3. Discuss Doctrine and Covenants 88: 124, with regard to proper rest; also Gospel Doctrine by Joseph F. Smith, page 461.
4. What are the physical effects of fear, anger, hate?
5. What are the blessings promised those who obey the Word of Wisdom?
>
SX^ork-and-iB
usiness
New-fashioned Thrift
Lesson 6
Clean Things Last Longer
(For optional use on Tuesday, March 9, 1943)
IVTOT only is "cleanliness next to nomical. It is easier to keep clean Godliness," but it is also eco- than to make clean. Dirt wears. things
62 RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
out, whether they be fabric, wood, quired will depend upon the harsh- plaster, leather, or fur. Good ma- ness of the water, and whether or not terials are entitled to good care, a softening agent is used. Trisodium Waiting until they are very dirty phosphate is a good detergent, before cleaning them means added Sheer fabrics when washed should rubbing and scrubbing that wears be rolled in a soft absorbent cloth, things out as much as does the dirt such as a turkish towel, to absorb the that is ground into them in the first excessive moisture, and they should place. While it is necessary to keep be ironed with a warm iron while things clean to conserve them, it is damp. Some fabrics, because of fine- also necessary in cleaning them to ness, construction, or color, respond use the process best suited to the ma- best to dry cleaning, and if done at terial or fabric involved. Some fab- home, extreme care should be taken rics take kindly to mild soap and in the handling of articles and in the water, while others require dry-clean- selection of the cleaning agent to be ing agents. The difficulty today is used. Whether laundering or dry- in knowing the material with which cleaning method is used, stains one is dealing. Rayon, the versatile should be removed from the article fiber, is woven into a variety of fab- before the whole article is cleaned, rics; and since these fabrics are so The proper time to remove stain is extensively used, it is important to when it is fresh. Air, heat, and water have a knowledge of their care. niay change the character of the stain Some rayon fibers lose their and make it difficult to remove, if strength when wet; others are dis- it can be removed at all. It is much solved when cleaning agents are easier to remove a stain without in- used; and some are melted by the jury to the fabric if tiie kind of stain use of too much heat. The cleaning is known. Most ordinary stains on of any material containing rayon tub-fast, washable materials, such as fiber depends on the nature of the cotton or linen, can be removed with weave as much as the fiber itself, warm water; or in case of fruit stain, Rough or creped surfaces should us- boiling water poured from a height, ually be dry cleaned. If material can Stubborn stains, like ink, require spe- be washed, the kind of soap, the tem- cial treatment.^ Clothing and fabric perature of the water used, the articles that can be handled easily handling while wet, and the length should be brushed often and regular- of time given for drying are im- ly. Dust and dirt work into the portant items to -remember. All meshes of the weave and cut the fabrics of rayon, silk, and wool, threads. The best time to brush whether used for clothing, upholster- clothing is immediately after wear- ing, curtains, draperies, or rugs, re- ^^^ Underwear and stockings should quire a mild soap luke-warm water, ^^ ^^^^^^ ^^ ^^^^^ deteriorate little handling with no harsh rubbing . . , , , • , or wringing. A long time is required with perspiration and body acids, for properly drying all of these fab- In most homes, rugs and uphol- rics except pure silk, which dries -^ ^^^^.^^,^ Housekeeping Book, quickly. The amount of soap re- Chapter 25, p. 323,
LESSON DEPARTMENT 63
stery usually get a bigger share of the napkins are made of various kinds of wear than other articles. To avoid fabrics, such as cotton, linen, rayon, some of this wear, they should have silk, and Cellophane. Linen and cot- a quick daily cleaning, rather than to ton, if white, can stand hot water; allow dust and dirt to work into the if colored, warm water should be pile. A more thorough cleaning used in washing. They should be should be given weekly. The best washed quickly, rinsed thoroughly cleaning implements to use are a and, if white, dried in sun; if colored, vacuum cleaner and a carpet sweep- they should be dried in the shade, er. Sweeping with a broom, espe- Grass linen is stiff and should be cially against the pile, will further handled carefully so as not to break embed the dirt, and may tear or dam- the threads. Cotton and linen re- age the soft, wool nap. Greasy spots quire a hotter iron in pressing than and soil cause dirt to stick, which, in do other fabrics. Mats made entire- turn, dulls the colors. A good non- ly of Cellophane only need to be inflammable cleansing fluid will wiped with a damp cloth to clean, brighten colors and remove spots. A bit of starch in the rinsing water Some kinds of rugs and upholstery will give cotton a gloss when ironed can be shampooed with safety if a and keep it clean longer. Never use thick jelly-like suds is made of neu- starch for other materials, especially tral soap and applied with a brush linen. If ironed linens are rolled on using a circular motion. The lather a pasteboard or paper roll rather than should be scraped off with a dull folded, they keep fresh, clean, and broad knife, and then wiped off with wear longer. The folds in larger a damp, clean cloth wrung out of xloths should be changed occasion- clean warm water. This process aly to prevent wear along the line of should be repeated as many times as the fold.
is necessary to remove all soap and ^^^^- ^j^^^^j^ j^^^^ -^^ ^^.^^^ ^f
soil. As httle water as possible should ^^^^ ^ ^^j^^^ ^^^ ^^^ g^,^ ^^^_ be used Articles should be allowed ^^jj ^^^^ ^^^^^ ^^^ ^,^3,^
to dry thoroughly betore bemg used. i . • •. • j i, i u
A i.T_ T_ 1 • • n r sheets are mvitme and help one to
A thorough cleanmg occasionally by . n c i j u jj- • i.
? -n V ., v£ c rest well. Soiled beddme IS not near-
an expert will prolong the life or , i i, ij- o
1 / . 1 . ^ TT J T_ 1 • £ Iv so warm as clean bedding. Kegu- such turmshings. Hard shaking ot ,^ . . , . r^.. ° . „ 1 1 ^1. 1 1 • J lar airing and sunning or the mat- small rugs breaks the backing and . ..? -, -. a cc \ i.i.
1 °, J r ■ A tress will keep it flurry. A mattress unravels the ends or fringe. A rug i u i A. ^ cu ^ 1 .J .1 £ ^ should have a cover that fits snugly laid on a smooth surface or over a j . i . i j £ i: J ^1 1 1 . • and that can be removed tor wash- pad not only wears longer but is . rr-, , r i • i. ui ^ . ^1 ^ , T£ T ing. The rules for washing table easier to keep clean. It slip covers ..^ , , i. -u j ^■ r\
j^ii-ijT_ J linen apply also to bed linen. Over-
are used, they should be removed r • £ i ui i i. 4. i-i,
r^ 1 ^ IT J . washing of woolen blankets mats the
often enough tor cleanliness and to 5 i, i, j i, • i
1 ^T- ^ i.1 J i. 1 1 nap and causes harshness and shrink-
make sure that moths do not lurk ^ ^, , . -n i n n: j £i. •£
1. i.1 ^T- .. £ i. 4.U age. Blankets wnl be flutty and sott it
beneath them to feast on the pre- ,^. , . £ j i j u
r 1 • £ i.1 J i. dried out-of-doors on a mud, breezy
cious fabrics of the davenport or, ct,i.i, i. - L,. j
^ day. Sheets hung straight and
^"^^^^- smooth on the line, dried, and then
Tablecloths, luncheon cloths, and carefully removed and folded, need
64
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
not be ironed other than to press the hems.
Occasionally the wood of furni- ture needs a thorough cleaning with thick soap suds to remove the grime and smoke that collect and dull the beautiful surfaces. In modern heated homes, furniture gets too dry, which sometimes causes it to crack and come apart. If washed carefully, a small part at a time, without much water, wiped thoroughly dry with a soft cloth, and polished with a good furniture polish rubbed with the grain of the wood, the wood of most furniture will look like new, and the little bit of water used will help re- store the moisture drawn out by over- heated houses. Floors often become loose and squeak from the same cause. Floor surfaces should be kept clean, and the finish, whether oil, wax, paint, or varnish, should be well applied. This prevents the floor from wearing, whether it be wood, lino- leum or tile, and is particularly im- portant where floors receive great
wear. Too frequent and too gener- ous use of soap and water has a ten- dency to deteriorate rather than pre- serve some finishes. Each kind should have its own treatment. Paste, liquid or self-polishing wax are sometimes used too generously. When there is an accumulation of this wax, it should be removed; the floor should be thoroughly cleaned and new wax applied. Painted walls may be cleaned with a mild soap and water, or a water softener or solvent and water. They should be wiped well after washing. Long even strokes should be used when wall- paper and calcimine are cleaned with the dough-like preparations now on the market. Rubbing back and forth makes streaks and embeds the dirt in the paper. The main point to remember in cleaning all materials and articles is that they should not become too soiled.
NOTE: America's Housekeeping Book, sections one, two, and three, pp. 131-335, contains a wealth of material on this sub- ject.
>
cLi
iterature
The Bible as Literature
Lesson 7
Some of the Great Personalities in the Bible
(Tuesday, April 20, 1943)
Oh]tctive: To remind us of some of the great characters in the Bible and help us to appreciate the qualities which made them great and to sense their influence upon our own lives.
Lesson Topics
1. Introduction
2. Abraham
3. Moses
4. Eve
LESSON DEPARTMENT 55
Intioduction in which they Hved, but who today Carlylesays: "There are great per- are even more influential, for they sonahties who march through history reahzed, were profoundly influenced with voices like clarion trumpets and by, and worked enthusiastically for something like glittering swords in ideals and principles which still lead their hands. . . . Contact with them us on." They had their faults and warms and kindles the mind.'' made mistakes, for they were very By association with superior per- human; but above every other de- sonalities, either in the flesh or sire, they had that of bringing the through the medium of literature, kingdom of God on earth— this was we take on some of their greatness, their glory. We can learn from them Many people feel that the Bible has today by seeing how they met their more eminent characters than any problems and worked them out. Mr. other book of literature. This is one Sell says, 'They were hardy adven- of its claims to greatness. Frank S. turers on the sea of life who, despite Mead draws attention to this fact violent storms, came safely to port in his book 250 Bible Biographies, vvith rich cargoes. To examine how Henry T. Sell includes only twenty- they did this will richly repay our one men in his Studies of Great study, for in their successes they rise Bihle Characters, but his selection above their nationality and every pomt definitely to outstanding age." Though Mr. Mead gives no men who have given us ideal more than his regular two or three and moral uplift by the ideals, Strug- hundred words to his thumb-nail gles, and achievements of their own sketch of Jesus, and Mr. Sell does lives. He writes of Abraham, the not include Him at all, we know man who dared to trust God; of that both would give him first place Isaac, who accepted the challenge of among Biblical characters. Hun- obedience; of Joseph, the dreamer jreds of books have been written whose dreams came true; of Moses, upon His life and mission. Most of the leader and law-giver of a nation; them have recognized His divinity, of Joshua, the courageous man with though a few have attempted to un- a hard task; of Saul, the man who derstand him as a man alone. Of abused his opportunities; of David, such writers, Harry Emerson Fos- the self-conqueror who became king; dick says in The Modern Uses oi the of Job, the man of undeserved suflFer- Bible, p. 272: "Of all foolish things, ing; of Isaiah, the world prophet and j think nothing is more foolish than, statesman; of Daniel, the man who looking back over our race's history made advantage out of disadvantage; and discerning amid its tragedy and of Luke, the man who broadcasted struggles this outstanding figure the Gospel's good news; of Paul, the spiritually supreme, to minimize man who bettered city conditions; him, to tone down our thought of and many others. him, to reduce him so that we can be Mr. Sell describes his characters as ^^^ ^^ ^^^^^^ 1^^ ^^ ^^^1^ j^.^, men who were the outstanding and rr ^ ^ ^ • t ^ i • strategic leaders in their own times, ^^ ^^^ ^^ "^^ ^" J^^us, God is not the men who molded the thought anywhere. The best hope of man- and directed the action of the ages kind is that God is in him and may
66
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
flow down through all the secret runnels of the race."
So important is the personality of Jesus that an entire lesson needs to be devoted to him. In this lesson we shall consider a few of the other Bible characters.
Abraham
That Abraham believed in God and trusted Him to the highest de- gree is seen in the sacrifice of Isaac. He probably felt as parents do today who sacrifice their sons for the good of their country. There is something of an analogy, too, in the willingness of parents in our Church to send their sons and daughters into strange lands to preach the Gospel. Often they realize that dangers will beset them, but they are proud to give them to the service of our Lord. Our Heavenly Father himself set the divine example, for ''He so loved the world that he gave His only begot- ten Son."
Of Abraham, William L. Phelps says, ''Unlike most of the Old Testa- ment heroes, hardly anything evil can be charged against him. He was spiritual-minded. He was obedient to the divine voice, and his unfalter- ing trust in God was rewarded."
Mr. Sell says that Abraham stands out as a commanding figure; that he had the traits of character that make great leaders; that he had dar- ing and splendid executive ability; that he was large-hearted and far- sighted and would have made an eminent statesman or victorious gen- eral had the opportunity come. Abra- ham was the founder of the Israel- itish nation; his name is revered by Christians, Jews, and Mohammed- ans; he is still blessing mankind by
making it easier for them to worship and love God and by showing them how to live uprightly under trying circumstances.
Moses
Moses was another genius, a lead- er at a critical period of Israelitish history. He was a lawgiver and a statesman; a guide to the Chosen People in Egypt and in the wilder- ness. Books have been written about Moses. Lectures have characterized him as the great Hebrew statesman. A scientist, calling him "Moses, the physician," has praised his advanced ideas concerning cleanliness and se- gregation of disease. He is depicted as gentle in manners, modest, and above all self-controlled, courageous, and strong. He has been classed as the "meekest" of men— the finest tribute to soldiers and kings. "The meek shall inherit the earth" sug- gests that there is no strength like the strength of meekness. Phelps says, "That Moses was the meekest man in ancient history, is the best thing said about him."
The story of Moses' birth and con- cealment in the rushes is like the plot of a modern novel or movie. When Pharoah's daughter named him, she did better than she knew, for Moses meant "drawer out," and he drew the Children of Israel out of slavery.
His first act of which we have record was indicative of his later career as a deliverer. He saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, and he killed the Egyptian, though perhaps he knew he would be condemned by his own people, taunted and in- sulted, and branded as a murderer.
Moses' best preparation for his
LESSON DEPARTMENT 67
Liter leadership came to him uncon- Eve
sciously while he kept the flocks of Little has been written about Eve, his father-in-law. The quiet, medi- and there is little in the scriptures tative life of the desert shepherd directly concerning her. Yet she brought him m close communion holds a unique position in being the with God, who gave him the sign of first woman in the world. That Eve the burning bush to make him had the womanly qualities that have aware of his call to leadership. To preserved for her daughters their convince his people that he had been place in the shrine of men's hearts divinely called, Moses was permitted through all succeeding ages is evi- to do a number of impressive mir- fenced by Adam's first recorded ut- acles, such as turning his rod into a terances about her and his willing- snake, making his hand leprous, ness to share her fall. He said: and then well and whole again. 'Therefore shall a man leave his fa- Later miracles, of course, were ther and his mother and shall cleave much more spectacular, when he was unto his wife: they shall be one called to compete with the magicians flesh.'' (Genesis 3:24) Adam could of the king who were trying to sub- have refused to partake of the for- due the Israelites. The story of the bidden fruit. He knew well the pain- Ten Plagues has been called "a ful consequences, tragedy in ten acts ending with a Condemned for her sin, Eve has climax." This story and other in- been harshly cafled weak; she has cidents in the life of this great man been reproached as the agent are well known. We need here, per- through whom mankind fell. She haps, only to remind ourselves that doubtless was weak and failed to dis- though he was born in slavery, he criminate between vastly different stands out as one of the greatest values. But let us consider some of figures in the history of mankind, his her other characteristics, chief accomplishment being that he she was highly sensitive to the took a people who had been in the beauties and glories in the Garden of worst type of slavery the world has g^en. She longed for the gifts her ever known, and made it into a great tempter promised-wisdom and un- nation with as pure moral and spir- derstanding equal to that of the itual ideals as the world has ever gojs. These would add to her power known. to enjoy beauty. The serpent, we Great characters in the Bible are must remember, had also promised not confined to men. Mr. Mead in- that she would not die. Doubtless, eludes many women among his biog- too, she wanted Adam to possess raphies, and Willard Done, of our something of inestimable value- own Church, wrote a little book en- the wisdom of the gods, titled Women oi the Bible. Among We must remember that Eve had interesting fictional books based on had no experience. She had not Biblical characters is Mary Borden's learned, as most of us have to learn, Mary of Nazareth. In this lesson we that disobedience brings punish- shall consider briefly but one of the ment. The promise that she would great women in the Bible. know good from evil, that she would
cs
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
see as God, that she would not die- all these constituted so great a temp- tation that she could not resist it.
But to understand the mature woman it is necessary to follow Eve's career outside the Garden of Eden. As Willard Done says: 'The first family was founded and the first real home established when Eve ex- claimed in triumph at the birth of Cain, *I have gotten a man from the Lord!' For the first time in the world the miracle of human birth had been experienced; and Eve was the first to know all the pain and sorrow and joy and triumph it entailed. . . . The first mother had looked with joy on her first born. The crowning triumph of her life had come, worth the sacrifice even of such a place as Eden.
''As Eve was the first to know the experience of human birth, so she was the first mother to endure the sorrow of death, and that in its most terrible form, the murder of one of her sons by the other. It seems to have been her lot to sound all the depths and reach all the heights of woman's experience, as if she had been destined to be an exemplar to her descendants by passing through all the joys, sorrows, glories, and humiliations that woman can know. Into her life were crowded the events which fulfilled the pronouncement following the fall. ... To lose her first two sons, one by violent death and the other by the punishment of exile, was to sound the lowest depths of grief and humiliation. It is dif- ficult to conceive of a greater sorrow. In her endurance of this bitterness. Eve proved herself again the heroine we have always thought her to be. And as so often happens in our griefs, the great loss was made up to
her. Another son, Seth, was given her to fill, in part, the places left vacant by the murder of Abel and the exile of Cain.
"And so Eve fought her fight and filled her place as the first wife and mother. ... To have been the first woman, realizing in her long and eventful life all the experiences of womanhood and earning all its re- wards, was to accomplish in its full- ness the mission of her sex. No greater appreciation of Eve or higher praise for her work can be given."
We cannot help wondering if Eve even had the joy of foreseeing that through a far-off descendant would come one to redeem the world. That vision, could she have foreseen the coming of Christ from her posterity, would have been a comfort and sup- port to her through the years. Mary, the mother of Jesus, will be pre- sented in the next lesson.
Study Helps
1. Contrast the character of Moses with that of Aaron.
2. Discuss the influence of the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:3-17) upon history. How do they aflPect our lives to- day?
3. Who are your five favorite Biblical heroes? Why?
4. What women characters besides Eve and Mary seem particularly important to you? Why?
5. Have some member read excerpts from Ruth and Esther; the Song of De- borah, or some similar passages from the Bible.
6. "Jephthah's Daughter", or "Hagar," by N. C. Willis might be given as a drama- tic reading.
References
* Phelps, W. L., Human Nature in the Bible.
LESSON DEPARTMENT 59
Fosdick, Harry E., The Modern Use oi Reliei Society Magazine, December
the BibJe. 1915, p. 548; July 1932, p. 390.
Sell, H. F., Studies of Great Bible Chai- "Paradise Lost," by Milton.
acteis
Mead, Frank S., Bible Biographies. ^^^'•' ^^^^/ "^^'^^^ ^^*^^ ^'^^'^^ S ' ^
=!<T^ TTrn 1 Airr . , ^ , , ^^^ "ow out of print, but those who have
-^Done, Willard, Women of the Bible. access to these books will find them help
Taylor, William N., Ruth and Esther. ful.
>
(boaai cbcience
What "America'' Means
Lesson 7
Growth of Political Parties in America
(Tuesday, April 27, 1943)
He serves his party best, who serves his country best.
— Rutherford B. Hayes
A thing to be remembered by every man who wishes to make his influence felt for good in our pohtics is that he must act purely as an American .... If we wish to do good work for our country, we must be unselfish, disinterested, sincerely desirous of the well-being of the commonwealth, and capable of a devoted adherence to a lofty ideal.
— ^Theodore Roosevelt
VyHEN George Washington was ernment and those who stood for the
elected President of the United fullest possible sovereignty of the dif-
States in 1789, there were no poli- ferent states; those who believed that
tical parties. At the beginning of the Constitution should be inter-
the Revolutionary War, the people preted as strictly as possible and
had divided into Whigs and Tories, those who wished to give its clauses
or Patriots and Loyalists, but the re- the widest possible interpretation,
suit of the war had been final, and But on April 30, 1789, when the in-
during the discussion and ratification auguration of Washington occurred,
of the Constitution of the United there were no party organizations.
States, there had been Federalists Washington thus had a clear field
and Anti-Federalists; the adop- from which to make his appoint-
tion of the Constitution, however, ments, and he believed that the pres-
seemed to end the existence of the idency should not be a partisan of-
latter. Nevertheless, there were fice.
groups and cleavages from which When President Washington or-
parties would arise in time. There ganized his cabinet, among the
were the frontier and the settled prominent men that he called to of-
states along the Atlantic seaboard; fice were Thomas Jefferson and Alex-
the rich and the poor; the agricul- ander Hamilton, the former becom-
tural and commercial classes; those ing Secretary of State and the latter,
who believed in a strong central gov- Secretary of the Treasury. In the
70 RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
different political theories of these principally in two political camps, two men, one discovers the cleavages which eventually emerged into our from which our two great modern major parties of today. The political political parties— Republican and parties of our national history grew Demoncrat— arose. No two men out of the devergent geographic- could have been more different, both al conditions of the country, for in character and in views as to what these conditions were conducive of government should be in the newly conflicting economic or industrial in- organized nation. Hamilton was teres ts. Cold winters and poor rock born in the West Indies and as a soil made most of the area of New young boy landed in New York with England unsuited to extensive agri- his fortune to make. He studied law culture, but the abundant water and married into a wealthy New power, proximity to the raw products York family and became a leading of the West, and the skilled labor figure in the state. He had a brilliant which that section always had, gave mind and an attractive personality, it extensive commercial and indus- Jefferson was born on the frontier in trial advantages. After the War of Virginia. While Hamilton lived 1812, aided by a high protective among the moneyed classes of New tariff, the industrial development of York, Jefferson was influenced by the New England was rapid, people of the country life. He had On the other hand, geographical complete faith in the wisdom of conditions in the South were most what we call ''the common man." favorable to the development of agri- Hamilton believed in a strong cen- culture. The Southern people al- tral government, while Jefferson be- ways complained that the tariff laws lieved that government should be of the Government not only re- left to the people within their respec- stricted trade in the South, but in- tive states as far as possible. Hamil- creased the price of manufactured ton stood for a high protective tariff, goods. Then, too, the cotton indus- a tax to protect the manufacturing try of the Southern States fostered industries of America. Jefferson be- the growth of negro slavery, an in- lieved that the tax or tariff on foreign stitution which the Northern States goods made articles more expensive, came to abhor. Each section, there- and he radically opposed any tax on fore, was eager for political power, foreign goods. One can readily see and during the years from 1789, that three great problems soon con- when our Government was organ- fronted the American people. They ized, down to the Civil War (1861- were: (1) Shall negro slavery be 1865), great statesmen lived to fight eliminated? (2) Shall a high protec- courageously for the political ideals tive tariff be maintained on im- which they held to be right. Such ported goods? (3) Do the individual men were Daniel Webster, John C. states have rights and powers over Calhoun, Henry Clay, Andrew Jack-
and above those granted by the Fed- son, Abraham Lincoln, Stephen A.
eral Government? Douglas, Jefferson Davis, and many
Along these lines the American others. It has been said that "the
people took sides, and were grouped history of political parties in Amer-
LESSON DEPARTMENT
71
ica is a history of great statesmen, who though differing with their col- leagues stood shoulder to shoulder in demanding that they be in very truth Americans/'
A BRIEF survey will help the read- er to understand the history of the two major parties in our political development. From Thomas Jeffer- son's administration (1801-9) to 1825, the Democratic-Republicans were in power. They followed pretty much the policies of Jefferson. In 1825, this party dropped the name Republican, and took the name of Jacksonian Democrats, after Andrew Jackson. A new party was formed to oppose Jackson, which in 1830 took the name of Whigs. From 1830 to 1850, when slavery, states rights, and the tariff became bones of contention, the Whig Party grad- ually grew in power, and out of it came the Republican Party, which elected Abraham Lincoln in i860.
The differences between the in- terests of the Southern States and those of the Northern States were partly settled by the War of the Re- bellion, and since the restoration of the nine states which seceded in 1861, there has steadily grown a bet- ter understanding of peoples living in different sections of our country.
Since the Civil War, the most im- portant phase of the development of our country has been our wide- spread activities in industry, which have revolutionized manufacturing, agriculture, transportation, and min- ing. A great machine age has changed our social lives. The power supplied by man's muscle or by that of his domestic animals has been sup- plemented by steam, electricity, and
gasoline. The use of this power aided in the production of great wealth, for manufacturing plants grew in size and were consolidated into larger industries. Trusts were organized; and, because of their ten- dency to monopolize the industries, the Government found it necessary to attempt legislation.
In the larger factories, thousands of laborers were employed, each of whom was engaged in some detailed process of production in which ex- pensive machinery was used. This caused the control of industry to pass from the hands of the worker and led labor to organize. Following the war between the North and the South, high tariffs have enabled great industrial corporations to de- velop more rapidly.
Organized labor sought to increase wages, reduce hours of employment, and secure better sanitary conditions. Here you have the foundation for the differences of opinion between capital and labor.
We learn a useful lesson in the study of political parties in our na- tional history. Every man who wishes well of his country is in honor bound to take an active interest in political life. A man who wishes to do good in his community may do so by go- ing into active political life. One can always find men who are desirous of good government, and who if they act together, become at once a pow- er on the side of righteousness.
One word more. It concerns our present problems. The present is an introduction to the future. A present problem left unsolved will ripen into a future crisis. With near- ly all the world ablaze, it will require the American people to give to their
72
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
country a united support in conquer- ing those powers that are deter- mined to destroy all that is sacred and secure in our democracy.
Questions and Topics ioi Discussion
Note: An ordinary manual or one- \olume history of the United States will give brief information on the history of political parties. In your class work, talk over some of the important subjects sug- gested in this lesson. They are:
1 . Why were the American people prac- tically united in their social and political lives at the time of the American Revolu- tion?
2. While there were no political parties at the time of Washington's election to the presidency, discuss the lines of political thought as expressed in the lives of Hamil- ton and Jefferson.
3. Give all the reasons you can why the Southern States were different from the Northern States in industry, social life, and political thought up to the time of the Civil War.
4. It has been said that the political history of a nation may be studied in the lives of the nation's great political charac- ters. Explain this saying.
5. Find out something about the minor parties that have influenced something of our history; for example. The Prohibition Party, the Know-Nothing Party, the Pro- gressive or Bull Moose Party.
6. On what great issue was Abraham Lincoln elected to the presidency of the United States?
7. Since the Civil War, how has Amer- ica changed in its industrial, social, and political history?
References
Any one-volume history of the United States will be your best help.
Channing, History of the United States.
Fiske, The American Revolution.
Babcock, Pdse oi American Nationality.
Elson, History oi the United States.
Nicolay, Our Nation in the Building.
Walker, Making oi the Nation.
Weertenbaker and Smith, The United States oi America.
Faulkner, American Economic History.
Chadwick, Causes oi the Civil War.
Note: If you are not able to answer all the questions or subjects mentioned, re- member it takes much close study for a long time to answer satisfactorily to your- self many questions in our political his- tory.
>
(general ^Presidents of Uxelief Society
(For optional use of Relief Societies in countries other than the United States, in lieu of social science lessons.)
Louise Yates Robison
Seventh Reliei Society President
Lesson 7
(Tuesday, April 27, 1943)
lyf ORMON colonization has been were strong— strong in muscle and
characterized by the quality of sinew, in intelligence, in righteous-
the Saints who conquered the new ness and faith. Such people were
wastes. Those men and women Thomas and Ehzabeth Yates, an
LESSON DEPARTMENT
73
English couple who helped to found Scipio, a small town in Millard County, Utah.
Their daughter, Louise, was born May 27, 1866, while an Indian up- rising was at its height. When the baby was five days old, neighbors lifted the bed containing mother and babe into a wagon, which they pulled into a stockade of logs that was also their meetinghouse. The Indians had killed three men of the small colony and had driven off all the horses and cattle. The Yates family survived these depredations as well as the hard labor which the primitive conditions required.
Despite her years of toil, Mrs. Yates retained the gentility and re- finement native to her character. Louise, like her mother, possessed the traits of a gentlewoman. She grew to be tall, slender, dignified and graceful She was pleasant, soft- spoken, and mild of utterance.
As a girl, Louise helped to wash, spin, weave, and dye woolen materi- als for her dresses. She knitted stockings, braided straw hats, and made flower trimmings. Louise Robison sometimes recalls the ex- citement in Scipio when President Brigham Young once visited there. The children wanted to strew flowers in his pathway, but blossoms were scarce. In the gardens they were lacking, although some house plants were in bloom. Louise stripped her mother's plants at the feet of the President.
Brother Yates was bishop of Sci- pio, and his wife was Relief Society president of Millard Stake. Louise grew up in the wholesome atmos- phere of a Latter-day Saint home, with the Relief Society influence its
dominant note. The family life was inseparably bound up with Church and community activities. Aiding her mother and the Relief Society, Louise gleaned wheat, gathered Sun- day eggs to be sold for wheat money, helped the sick and unfortunate. The love of humanity and the spirituality she thus developed are the two out- standing qualities which she brought to the Relief Society presidency, and which were magnified with her years of service.
For a time Louise studied at the Brigham Young University in Provo. She was a beautiful girl, and while quite young she married Joseph Ly- man Robison, a member of another pioneering family, and a man of fine character. At first the pair lived in southern Utah, then they made a lovely home for their growing family in Provo. Later, they moved to Salt Lake City. They had four daughters and two sons. The girls married and devoted themselves to their homes. The oldest son, Harold, is a promin- ent physician in Los Angeles, while Rulon, a singer, teaches at the fam- ous New England Conservatory of Music.
CISTER ROBISON worked first in the Mutual Improvement As- sociation, then on the Granite Stake Relief Society Board, where she be- came counselor to the president.
Brother Robison cooperated and en- couraged his wife to do the Church work for which she was in demand. During World War I, Louise Robison became a Red Cross in- structor and supervisor in the sur- gical dressings department. For out- standing services, she was honored
74 RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE— JANUARY 1943
with the emblem of the Red Cross, eloquence, kindliness, her remark- a beautiful pin. able memory for names and faces, In 1921, President Heber }. Grant her personal interest in Relief So- called Sister Robison to be second ciety workers— all have made her a counselor to Sister Clarissa S. Wil- most welcome visitor, liams, the new general president of At a World Congress of Women Relief Society. Sitting in the audi- in Chicago, while the World's Fair ence when her name was presented, was open, the president of the Na- she was almost overcome with sur- tional Council of Women, Lena M. prise. Phillips, appointed Mrs. Robison to Because of her sympathetic nature preside at one session, which was at- and her exquisite needlework. Sister tended by hundreds of women from Robison was made chairman of the all over the world. When a delegate important burial-clothes department to the International Council of of the General Board. Able to ex- Women in Paris, France, Mrs. Robi- press condolence in a delicate, tact- son by request represented Lena M. ful maner, she was a genuine com- Phillips at two meetings of the inter- fort to the bereaved. national presidents. Only the proper- Sister Robison took a special in- ^Y accredited women were admitted, terest in home beautification, and While in Europe, Sister Robison through her enthusiasm and under visited Relief Societies in some of the Society's direction trees and the branches in England, Belgium, shrubs were planted and homes were Holland, Switzerland, and Germany, improved. ' Many of the Saints still hold her
In view of Sister Robison's inter- ^i^it in precious remembrance, est in furthering human welfare and Sister Robison sponsored institutes happiness, she was chosen to repre- in social welfare to teach Relief So- sent the Relief Society at two con- ciety women better methods of car- ferences of the Travelers Aid So- ing for the poor, ciety and at three National Conven- During Sister Robison's presi- tions of Social Workers, appearing dency a notable event occurred. A on the program at one of them. Her monument was erected by the Relief reports of her attendance at 'the Society at Nauvoo, Illinois, to mark White House Conferences for Chil- the site where Relief Society was or- dren breathe love and sympathy and ganized March 27, 1842. This monu- a longing for improved conditions ment is of stone, four by eight feet, for the nation's young. surmounted by two bronze tablets In 1928, Sister Robison was ap- giving historical data of Relief So- pointed general president of Relief ciety. At the dedication ceremony, Society. She has traveled widely in July 26, 1933, hundreds of people the stakes and missions of America sat under spreading locusts, or stood and in the missions of Europe, carry- nearby. Mr. W. D. Chenery of Illi- ing messages of gladness, stirring nois wrote in a newspaper there that people's hearts, arousing love and "^^s. Louise Y. Robison, presided enthusiasm for the Gospel and its over the ceremonial with a gracious- work. Her grace of manner, natural ness and tact that might be the emu-
LESSON DEPARTMENT
75
lation of chairmen the world over." Another writer commented that her pleasing manner and ready wit caught the crowd.
Another important project en- couraged by Sister Robison, and one which became a very popular phase of Relief Society work in America and in the foreign missions, was the development of Singing Mothers' choruses.
Sister Robison has done much temple work during her life— a work that has been for years one of her major satisfactions. The spiritual side of the Gospel appeals to her na- ture. Late in 1939, when the Gener- al Boards of Relief Society and Pri-
mary were reorganized, Sister Robi- son and her Board were honorably released. She was then asked to be an ordinance worker in the Salt Lake Temple, and took much pleasure in fulfilling that call. She is at present actively engaged in Relief Society work in San Francisco Stake. She accepts many invitations to speak in w^rds and stakes. Sister Robison and her Board inaugurated the four- year Relief Society membership campaign and carried it forward for two years. Her interest in this project continued throughout the campaign. The true spirit of the Gospel emerges in her voice and shines forth in her countenance.
References
Handbook oi Relief Society, p. 129 et passim
Centenary of Relief Society, p. 13, et passim
Relief Society Magazine, July 1921, p. 381; December 1928, p. 652; January 1929, pp. 3, 22; July 1929, p. 360; January 1930, p. 27; March 1930, p. 123; June 1933, p.
p. 44; May 1939, p. 311; February 1940, P- 77
Pictures:
Handbook of Relief Society, p. 108 Centenary of Relief Society, p. 13 et
passim
Relief Society Magazine, July 1921, p.
384; September 1933, p. 540; March 1934, 382; June 1924, p. 272; January 1929, p. 2; p. 167; July 1934, p. 442; September 1934, June 1930, p. 308; March 1932, p. 130; p. 555; June 1935, p. 375; January 1937, February 1940, p. 76
>
Justice Is a Group Affair
(Continued from page 33)
Mr. Peterson cleared his throat again. 'Tet me see your report card, Judith," he said.
She gave it to him.
''Why, there's a mistake here. How is that?"
He used an eraser and a pen and handed the card back. A "G" was written where the 'T" had been.
"Oh, thanks!" Judith gulped and ran to her seat. Mr. Peterson looked hard at a book. Edna turned abrupt-
ly and walked out of the room, her back a rigid exclamation point of triumph and disgust. Judith caught a glimpse of her face as she turned to close the door. It was grey-white like snow in shadow. The group in the rear broke up, and Judith moved outside, too. No one wanted to talk. Afterwards the schoolroom was different. Mr. Peterson's attitude was impersonal, and a whole new world opened wide. There was so much to learn and so little time!
76
RELIEF SOCIETY MAGAZINE-JANUARY 1943
Life grew exciting and happy again.
Soon the feeHng of expectancy, which was spring, rose on the air; and the hillside, still clothed in the shaggy grass of the autumn before, began to push through the snow. When the windows were open, Ju- dith could hear the first water-song coming up from the sunny side of the bridge where the creek was creeping out of its cold, hard cover- ing and bubbling over with freedom. The linnets alighted in the nearby trees and tossed up their tinkling notes: ''Happy greeting! Happy greeting!'' And there was a fresh, clean smell in the air as of rain- washed leaves or newly-laundered curtains.
Then, suddenly, it was May; the
Maypole dance was over, the pas- ture rolling down toward the creek from the schoolyard fence was warm and green and dotted with brassy little buttons of dandelions, and the final examinations were just around the corner.
Now Judith sat on the summer grass remembering Edna Silver. . . Justice is a group affair, justice for everybody, and everybody's con- cern. . . . Some folks unkind, but more who were selfless and lovable and great. . . Edna Silver. All these were hers in a wonderful countrv; and she had thought it was a new dress that mattered, but Edna had known. Her heart was packed to