Self-Reliance Tip of the Week - The Knowledge BBQ

I normally don't have dreams that leave an impression on me. But, the other day I had one. It wasn't one of those," Why am I standing in front of the class with a fishbowl on my head?" or maybe "Why are there dancing dogs on a stage in my kitchen?" kind of dreams. It really made me think. There are several websites that offer guidance when a person wants help interpreting a dream that doesn't make any sense...where is Daniel or Joseph of Egypt when you need 'em? So, here was the dream: 

 My family was in Germany in a large guest house with several kitchens and entry/exit doors. I was looking around at toys left by someone who had been there before. President Uchtdorf (probably because we hang out with him on vacation all the time :) ) was talking to someone in one of the side kitchens. The host was showing me the laundry line where we could hang our clothes. My 2nd son (who is 13) came running in and said, "They are burning books! They want them all." I began to panic because I had brought with me one of my kids' baby books. I was trying to find some way that I could hide it because this was so important to me. 

So when I woke up I thought, "What books are most important to me?"  The books that are most important to me are my herb books, history books, family history books, my kids' baby books and most importantly the scriptures.

I am reminded of a novel (not a true story, but some parts are true) I once read that talked about St. Luke as a doctor. He wanted to study at the Library of Alexandria - but because it had been burned down almost 100 years before Luke was born, centuries of knowledge went with the smoke. Health discoveries of the time (in truth including information about a healing glowing stone) were all lost. This is so incredibly sad to me. 

When I was listening to the scriptures with one of my kids and it was talking about how Joseph had not listened to the Lord after asking for the 116 pages to be shared with Martin Harris. I explained to my son the tight spot Martin might have been in, as well as Joseph but because in a time of weakness Joseph feared man more than God. The pages were lost and his ability to translate were taken away. During this revelation (Doctrine and Covenants section 10), the Lord tells Joseph that he knew even back to the time of Nephi that this would happen and that is why he had Nephi repeat a lot of what Lehi had said. 

I think a lot about having a "second plates of Nephi" for all of my digital things especially...especially family history. I have information on my portable hard drive that I have in a Faraday cage - an EMP is a different kind of "burn" - but is just as effective as real fire. 

(For more information: http://runningfoxes.blogspot.com/2014/11/self-reliance-tip-of-week-so-whats-it.html)

While attending the temple recently, my husband enlightened my understanding of Mother Eve. Her choice was about whether she would have knowledge or not. They could stay in the Garden and not progress, or, they could have knowledge (which sorrow would be a part of their experience). Books are knowledge, and it is very important to protect that knowledge. Part of protecting that knowledge in my opinion is to teach and encourage our children to read...even outside of school time. How incredible would it be to have a book written by Eve about her experiences? What would it be like to live for nearly 1000 years? 

I love the story shared about Ben Carson given in last October's General Conference by Tad Callister . It is called "Parents the Prime Gospel Teachers of Their Children." Ben's mother cleaned homes for wealthy people. She realized successful people had lots of books and read them. 

"After work she went home and turned off the television that Ben and his brother were watching. She said in essence: You boys are watching too much television. From now on you can watch three programs a week. In your free time you will go to the library—read two books a week and give me a report."

Then Ben reflected, “She laid down the law. I didn’t like the rule, but her determination to see us improve changed the course of my life.”  Here is the whole talk:  https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/10/parents-the-prime-gospel-teachers-of-their-children?lang=eng

This is a gospel principle.

While I don't believe there will be a mandatory book burning anytime soon like happened all across Germany prior to WWII. It has happened on a large scale as recently as last year though in Bosnia by rioters. Large amounts of historical documents were destroyed at the Presidential Palace. I do believe it is important to gather books of value for future generations. Let us have the books our kids are reading be of value and not just for mindless entertainment. Here is an excellent list of classics for young readers: http://www.tjed.org/resources/classics/young-readers/ and here is a list for adults: http://www.tjed.org/resources/classics/adults/

 Lastly, we should do all in our power to prevent any future B-B-Q of Knowledge. 

Self-Reliance Tip of the Week - Cha Cha Cha Check It Out!

There is so much more to this power kitty than meets the eye....

Many readers might remember the cute little cheesy commercials for Chia Pets. I am sure I wouldn't have to dig too far to find out who invented it. It might be a little harder find to figure out WHY they invented it. That is neither here nor there. Chia has so much more to offer us than visual enjoyment or a little chuckle, because lets face it....they look a little rasta! :) Let's take a closer look at our old friend in a new way. 

CHIA - A SUPER FOOD

Why would chia seed be considered a super food? Well, because of all the amazing components stuffed into one tiny seed! Check it out one ounce of seed contains: 

• Fiber: 11 grams.
• Protein: 4 grams.
• Fat: 9 grams (5 of which are Omega-3s).
• Calcium: 18% of the RDA.
• Manganese: 30% of the RDA.
• Magnesium: 30% of the RDA.
• Phosphorus: 27% of the RDA.
• They also contain a decent amount of Zinc, Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Potassium, Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) and Vitamin B2.

Many people tout that it is a weight loss food because of its low calories. I have never been one to say that all "calories are created equal", because frankly they aren't. No one could convince me that 100 calories of Pringles chips could give me the same nutrition as an ounce of chia seed ( which, to be fair an ounce of chia seed is technically 101 calories). Several studies have been done and they don't support the weight loss story, but other things were happening in the body.

• When type 2 diabetics had 37 grams of chia over a 12 week period (when compared to wheat bran) blood pressure came down
• Bones need calcium, magnesium and phosphorus to assimilate the calcium. Chia's got it.
• The omega 3's are good for your brain (ALA) - and are more than half the total fat of this amazing little grain. Wheat doesn't have that. Flax and chia are the only grains to have omega 3's, other top sources are fish or seal (arf arf) (the DHA kind of omega 3's that fish have are best for you, but may not always be available for use in food storage).
• They are high in antioxidants which prevent cell damage. Supplements can't touch this because they aren't a whole food. Chia is.

For more information, follow this link: http://authoritynutrition.com/11-proven-health-benefits-of-chia-seeds/

Chia seeds can be stored for up to five years (vacuum sealed). That is pretty amazing considering the (healthy) fat content. It is no wonder that the Aztecs and Mayans revered this little beauty. I throw chia into all kinds of stuff. Because they have a neutral taste, they can be hidden into just about anything. My kids love them in Peanut Butter Breakfast Balls (recipe here: http://runningfoxes.blogspot.com/search?q=peanut+butter+balls). 

Chia seeds can be kind of expensive, but they would be a great addition to grains you've stored. I have seen them at Wal-Mart and they can also be purchased here: http://shop.honeyville.com/organic-chia-seeds.html

So, from now on, when you think of Chia pets, remember to grab some chia seeds. They are much more valuable than a white elephant gift. 

Self-Reliance Tip of the Week - Pain and Panic

Pain and Panic...(in the voice of Bobcat Goldthwait) We really are your friends!

Disney made a movie 18 years ago called "Hercules". It is their goofy take on the aforementioned mythological character. My two favorite characters are the minions of Hades, Pain and Panic. They are almost always sent to do the dirty work. They often like to appear to be something different, like a soft cuddly bunny and a cute chipmunk to deceive those who are around them. My favorite part is when they get in trouble for wearing the merchandise of the now famous Hercules. It is a good thing these things don't really exist...or do they?

In reality, pain and panic do like to appear to be something different than they really are. Some people think when they panic and run around like a chicken about to be prepared for dinner, that they are being productive. Not so. Pain, panic, fear, frustration, discouragement, overwhelm and all other emotions that fall into the same category belong to the author of lies. How can we avoid them?

Luckily, we have some amazing people on our team. Here is what Elder Jeffry R. Holland said: 

"We know for certain that if and when everything else in the latter days is down or dying; if governments, economies, industries, and institutions crumble; if societies and cultures become a quagmire of chaos and insecurity, nevertheless, through it all the gospel of Jesus Christ and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that bears that gospel to the world will stand triumphant. It will stand undefiled in God’s hand until the very Son of God Himself comes to rule and reign as Lord of lords and King of kings. Nothing is more certain in this world. Nothing is more sure."

-Jeffrey R. Holland

(here is a link to that quote https://www.lds.org/broadcasts/article/evening-with-a-general-authority/2015/02/helping-with-the-real-issues?lang=eng)

So, how do we prevent the pain and panic and live in the "we will stand triumphant" in the craziness of today's world?

I found this Ensign article written by William G. Hartly that is 14 years old. It is LOADED with some crazy cool information that we all could learn from. 

• Lesson 1: When we ignore preparedness counsel, we can expect unhappy consequences.

Before leaving Nauvoo, members had Church-published lists of what to take with them. But when the first companies left in February 1846, several hundred members panicked and crossed the Mississippi River without proper clothes, food, or shelter. As a result, they brought suffering upon themselves, slowed down others, and drained resources from those properly prepared.

I'll give you an example of this. When it is the night before Halloween and people decide that now is the time to get their costumes, Wal-mart is raided. There is:

• no selection and
• a huge mess
• grumpy irritated people...in a huge rush for the last Iron Man costume....

Solution: Halloween costumes come out almost right after Easter, why would they wait until the night before when they surely won't get the costume they wanted? Plan ahead and avoid the rush andpanic :)

• Lesson 2: Protect against nature.

Trail death tolls reveal that the highest numbers of deaths were among infants and the elderly. Some pioneers became cold and wet because wagon covers and tents were not waterproof. Others suffered sunburns when they lost their hats. Their lips chapped from the dry air, wind, and sun. Many suffered diarrhea and lacked medicine to stop it. Some travelers, while dressed properly for summer heat, lacked coats and gloves for the cold mountain temperatures experienced before reaching the Salt Lake Valley. In addition, pioneers had to guard against wildlife, particularly snakes and wolves. In many campsites they suffered from swarms of mosquitoes that badly hurt children and angered horses and cattle.

We cannot prepare for everything, I totally get that. However, these few simple things like hats, lip balm, coats, gloves,sunscreen, winter clothing, bug repellent and a waterproof tent/ wagon would have prevented some of the pain they experienced...and even prevented the death of some people.

One Final Lesson

Along with all of the practical lessons history teaches, one more lesson comes through: maintain good attitudes during troubled times. A sense of humor is like salve on a wound.

On 6 April 1846 about 2,000 Saints with about 400 covered wagons were bogging down in Iowa rains and mud, trying to reach campsites beside Locust Creek. “I was in the rain all day,” President Young noted in his diary, “arranging the wagons, pitching tents, chopping wood until all were comfortable.” That dreary day most members had good excuses to feel miserable. However, Patty Sessions noted in her diary that “[Brother] Brigham came up with his company driving his team in the rain and mud up to his kne[e]s as happy as a king.”

My family and my brother's family wanted to go to Arivipa Canyon for July 4th weekend. We camped in Eden the night before...not the best idea ever because it was so DARN-TOOTIN' hot! I had many thoughts and feelings of the family of Lehi and Nephi while there because...they lived this for 8 years! It was easy to grumble and get cranky because, well, it wasn't as fun as we had hoped. While we couldn't do anything about the heat, the idea crossed my mind to make up new words to "I Love The Mountains" - and it went like this (ahem): 

I love the desert

I love the blazing heat

I love the beetles (they were really loud)

I might just want to eat

I love to sweat just like a slippery pig...boom -de-adda- boom-de- adda- boom-de-adda boom-de-aye

It really was amazing how quickly a little silly song could lift spirits and change the feelings about the situation. In the morning we came to the July 4th breakfast and listened to Bro. Cluff...the frustrations of the night quickly faded and we remembered how lucky we were to live in America. Thanks Bro. Cluff. You're my hero.

I really would like to encourage you to read this Ensign article by Bro. Hartley. There is so much more in it that I haven't covered. There really is some excellent words of advice. Pain and Panic are not our friends. They do not help us in any way. No matter their disguise, they will always hurt us. When we live as Elder Holland described in his quote above as the Church will go forth, it will be "undefiled". If Elder Holland is on our team, we must choose to be on the Lord's team. If we live as such and listen to the voice of the prophets and follow their counsel, we will not be lead astray. Here's a link to "Sturdy Shoes and a Waterproof Tent" 

https://www.lds.org/ensign/2001/10/sturdy-shoes-and-a-waterproof-tent?lang=eng#pop_001-21910_000_011

Self-Reliance Tip of the Week - For The Record

Isn't she cute? She's amazing too...

In preparation for Trek, I tried to read as much as I could about many of my ancestors. Since we were going to be treking "for" one of them, I figured I better learn as much as I could. I read and taught my Trek kids mostly from my Tenney family heritage (thanks to a book Sister Kathy lent to me). I've since been branching more out because I JUST CAN'T STOP! Family History is like a can of Pringles...once you pop, you can't stop! I just want MORE!!! I am so grateful for Family Search (https://familysearch.org/) because cousins I didn't even know I had add more stories and pictures all the time and it is just SO STINKIN' EXCITING!

While I was listening to an oral history of some of my great (in more than one way) Madsen aunts and uncles (it was a birthday present for my Great Grandfather in 1978), I was so impressed that they had so many fond memories of being kids during The Great Depression. One of my uncles mentioned that they would milk several cows every day (even the girls did) and they were so rich because they could go get a check after two weeks for a whole $20. He mentioned that $20 was a large sum of money in those days and didn't realize what bills had to be payed with that amount. While listening to the radio this morning, I heard an ad about the "Radio Supper Club" and that you can buy dinner for two for $20. Times sure have changed haven't they?

What does reading and listening to records have to do with self-reliance? If someone had not taken the time to record these things, I would not have them. If I didn't know the hard things my ancestors went through, survived and were very happy despite the lack of funds (or what ever) - how would I know I can too? If I am ever called to go through similar trials, I can learn how they put their faith in action and made it work.

Here are some things I've learned while diving into this amaz-ilicious treasure trove:

• Home-made music lifts the soul
• It doesn't hurt the children to work hard too
• When brothers and sisters can play together (kick the can, run sheepy run, the good ol' fashioned play house and dress up) it creates lasting bonds
• Family traditions are so important to children
• Parents can make even the most scant Christmases magical (it is all in the attitude)

These really are only a few. 

When my GGGG Aunt Betsy Jane Tenney sat down to write a brief history of her life, little did she know that her record would be one of only a few we would be able to find about her parents and their trials. She was the Relief Society President at the time in her ward. They were building the church building and would put her record in a vault to be opened long after her death. In 1930 that building was torn down and the record given to one of her daughters. This record has the most amazing story that has affected my life and blessed countless people. When their family reached Winter Quarters my GGG Grandfather William Tenney passed away. Two of his children would die there also. My GGG Grandmother Eliza was heartbroken. She felt she couldn't go to Zion without them. So Betsy Jane with her family, brother Warren and Mother Eliza moved to Quincy Illinois to live for a time. Betsy's son became so sick he was close to death. She asked her brother to administer to him and give him a blessing, but he didn't have the priesthood. As Betsy prayed, she told Heavenly Father that there was no one to administer to him and she was scared for his life. If he could be healed, she knew they were to make the trek west to be with the saints. The Holy Ghost told her what to do. He recovered more every day. Betsy knew what she must do. She worked for two years to earn enough for two wagons so they could go. Her choices changed my life. I'm so glad to have that record. 

I encourage you to be the record keepers for your family. When we take just a short amount of time to record these things, it could strengthen the testimony of your GGGG grand nieces and nephews. That's pretty amazing if you ask me. 

Self-Reliance Tip of the Week - Vandalism and Corn Meal Mush

Los Angeles Temple Vandalism during the Prop 8 voting

For starters, I wanted to share this email that I received regarding vandalism/ mischief that has been happening to our church buildings locally.

Brethren and Sisters – I am emailing you today because of increases in Church property vandalism and/or mischief during the past month, and I am asking that you please pass the word to your members and staffs to be vigilant for us and help put a stop to this costly abuse.  We have had the following incidents occur in the last 30 days:

• Sprinkler flow controls turned off at the Temple, and Church Street 
• Electrical disconnect turned off to sprinkler system at CT5, Central/FM
• Electrical disconnects turned off to HVAC equipment at Solomon, Safford 20^th, Safford SC, Pima SC
• Sprinkler wires ripped from valve boxes at Pima SC
• Sprinkler clocks tampered with, watering times changed, programs altered, button settings disrupted at Pima SC, Pima DT Safford 20^th, Thatcher Seminary

Many of these controls and disconnects are behind masonry screen walls, or inside locked containments where no unauthorized persons should be.  So they are entering with the intent to do damage. 

These cost man hours and contractor hours to review, reset, and repair, not to mention the destruction and death to plant and landscape materials in a short time with the heat levels at over 100 degrees, and the cost to replace that.  Much of that damage we are even discouraged to replace by our Municipality Water Restriction guidelines which are in place during this drought.  It is much less costly to maintain the current landscapes than to replace them if they die.  I do not know who is causing this, but it seems to be increasing and spreading.  Please be extra vigilant and notify me or the police in your communities if you find or suspect someone doing damage to church property.

This reminds me in the Book of Mormon, just before Jesus is born in Helaman 13, the prophet Samuel warns the people that their riches will become slippery because of a curse that is brought upon them. That curse is theft. The disregard for personal property is "theft's" first cousin.  Let us be vigilant and report to the proper authorities if we see anything suspicious - these are houses of the Lord.

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX

Aurelia and son Orson Thomas Rogers

I recently heard a talk about the first Primary General President - here is a short summary I found.

• In 1878, Aurelia Rogers had become concerned that younger Latter-day Saint children had too much unsupervised time. In particular, Rogers felt that the younger boys in the community were becoming unruly and mischievous. While praying for guidance, Rogers said she heard a voice say "that there was an auxiliary organization [in the church] for all ages except the children".Rogers met with the LDS Church president John Taylor and received permission to operate a church organization for children. With the assistance of general Relief Society president Eliza R. Snow, Rogers organized a Primary Association for her local Farmington congregation on August 11, 1878. Two weeks later, the first meeting was held on August 25, with 215 children in attendance. That day, boys were specifically taught not to steal fruit from orchards and girls were taught not to hang on wagons. In addition, they were given lessons on faith, manners, obedience, and other principles. Snow assisted the church in spreading Primary to other church congregations. In 1880, Primary was adopted churchwide as the official organization for children in the LDS Church. From 1893 until her death, Rogers served on the general board of the Primary organization.
• Who wants to take on a responsibility like that? Didn't she know there were thousands of children in the church?
• In 1978 April General Conference, David B. Haight spoke of Sister Rogers.  At Winter Quarters, when Aurelia was only twelve and her sister Ellen was only fourteen, their father was called to leave their motherless family (mom died shortly after they left Nauvoo). Dad had been called to serve a mission. So Aurelia and Ellen became "mother" to the four younger siblings. After the first year their father was gone, they were asked by President Brigham Young if they would consider their father continuing his mission for another year. Ellen said, “If it is thought best,we would like it so, for we want to do [what’s] for the best.” The cows and horses their father had purchased for their support had all died but one. This little family had crossed the plains by themselves. Aurelia said:
•  … We really suffered for something to eat; part of the time having nothing but corn-meal, which was stirred up with water and baked on a griddle. Many a night I have gone to bed without supper having to wait until I was hungry enough to eat our poor fare.” 
•  
• Wow...isn't that humbling? I have a couple reasons for bringing up corn-meal mush. 
• 
  

1. it can sustain life (just like rice, beans, and wheat) - if that's all you've got, then you make do.
2. would it be wise to store a variety of foods? Food fatigue is a very real thing (shoe string prep ideas here http://runningfoxes.blogspot.com/2014_11_01_archive.html)

One of my "sons" on Trek put about two tablespoons of corn-meal mush in his bowl. He wanted to eat enough for him to get "the pioneer experience". Funny boy. 

Aurelia is one of my heroes. Her ability to take this two year trial and make herself a better person. It prepared her for the calling she would later hold. She became the example to not only her younger siblings, but also to the young moldable children of the entire church. Amazing! Through physical trials, Heavenly Father is able to mold us to be what He needs us to be. Aurelia's life is an excellent example of that.  

If our children are getting into too much mischief....maybe we need to feed them corn-meal mush. It may help to humble them. :)

Self-Reliance Tip of the Week - Miracles of Powered Moo Juice

Oreo's Favorite Drink

Our culture uses a lot of dairy. From soups and sauces, to milk on our cereal or whipped topping on strawberry crepes. Oh YYyyyyeaaaahh!

Then there's powdered milk (peanut gallery says "Boooo") ! Oh come on guys!  You just haven't given it a chance. Did you know there are tons of stuff you can do with powdered milk? No, it won't be the same as the original, but it will get pretty stinkin' close. 

Here are a few recipes to consider: 

Sweetened Condensed Milk

1/2 C. water 

1 C sugar

2 to 3 T shortening or butter

1 C instant dry milk powder

Dash salt

Bring water to boil. Add sugar and butter. Bring back to boil. Wisk in powered milk.Get all the lumps out and you're done! Ta-Dah!

Quick Whipped Topping

1/2 C water (put in the freezer and chill until little ice crystals form on the top)

1/2 C instant dry milk powder

2 T powdered sugar

1 tsp lemon juice

1/2 tsp vanilla

Combine water and powdered milk. Whip for about 5 minutes. Add sugar, lemon juice and vanilla. Whip for one more minute.

Sour Milk ( for sour milk or butter milk in recipes)

1 T vinegar

1 C reconstituted powdered milk

Mix together and in a minute it will curdle. 

Feta/ Ricotta Cheese

3 C powdered milk

6 C water

1 C vinegar

1 tsp salt

(basil can also be added - optional)

Combine milk and water. Stir until dissolved. Slowly heat milk to 120 degrees. Remove from heat and add vinegar. Stir and let sit for 10 minutes. Strain curds out with cheese cloth. Rinse with 2 C clean water and add salt. Use in lasagna and other Italian dishes.

Cream Cheese

Use feta recipe - and let it sit on your counter covered lightly with a towel for three days. Blend in a blender and tadah! You've got cream cheese. 

See, powdered milk has a special place in our cupboards. The best thing? When they are stored properly, powdered milk can still be in the same cupboard for 30+ years and do the same thing. Too bad the same could not be said about the fresh gallon in fridges across America. :) If you're interested, I could make a "how to" video on how to make mozzarella cheese with powdered milk. It turns a slight brown color, but when you melt it, it is white and beautiful. Not bad. 

Self-Reliance Tip of the Week - How Big Are Your Ears?

Are your ears itching?

It has come up a lot recently to me that the apostles haven't talked very much recently about food storage or anything like that. I hear quite often that if "something big" was going to happen, the prophet would surely warn us so we would be prepared. I would like to turn your attention to parables in the scriptures. When parables are given, those who have ears to hear are the ones who get it. Those who take the story at face value think, "Well, that's a nice story." The amazing thing about parables? They can be understood and applied on many, many different levels. That is why the Savior himself used them a lot. 

How big are your ears? 

We have been given several parables in General Conference and Ensigns over the last several years and I would like to highlight just a few of them. 

• In October 2013 General Conference Adrian Ochoa gave the talk "Look Up". He tells the story of being sent on an errand to get groceries on horses with his cousins. They had a "brilliant" idea to get down and play marbles. They were so absorbed in this entertainment that they didn't see the "signs of the times" with an amazing storm about to open up on them. With rain and hail, they escaped and found a family who took them in and dried them off. He said, "...we were only thinking of ourselves." He also said, "I always remind myself, "Don't forget to look up."

What could he be telling us? Here is the whole talk. https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/look-up?lang=eng

• In October 2010 Patrick Kearon gave a parable of the scorpion. His parents had him many, many times to always wear shoes. They lived in the desert and there was always the threat that he could get stung by a scorpion at any time. He chose to ignore the council of his parents and decided to explore by half-heartedly putting on flip-flops. He was stung and had to be rushed to the hospital. He could have avoided all of the trauma, if he would have heeded the parental advice given to him.

How does this same principle apply to self-reliance? Here is the whole talk: https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/come-unto-me-with-full-purpose-of-heart-and-i-shall-heal-you?lang=eng

• In the September 2015 Ensign President Monson gave the First Presidency Message titled "Are We Prepared?" He shares a story of volunteers cleaning up weeds with weed eaters and fires around a church poultry project that housed 5000 chickens. While the service they were doing made the land look nice, it scared the chickens to an early molt and they stopped laying. 

What in the world would that have to do with preparedness? Here is the whole article: https://www.lds.org/ensign/2014/09/are-we-prepared?lang=eng

Here is what I have gleaned from these words of wisdom:

• Entertainment (in all its forms) can be very distracting and keep us from doing what we know is necessary
• Be aware of the clouds, but finishing the work is a priority
• If we half-heartedly make preparations because we're more interested in other entertainment - we leave ourselves open for a painful ride
• Heed the advice our Heavenly Parent has given to us by old and new prophets
• If the apostles were able to give us a "service" and tell us everything that was going to happen and when, all the "chickens" in the church would panic and stop producing. In reality, it would be a great disservice to them. 

We are told in the scriptures to watch for the signs of tribulation. It will be a great sifting time before Jesus actually returns. We have seen some of them already. We don't know the day or the hour when anything will happen, but we are supposed to watch. It has even been compared to a woman in labor. She doesn't know EXACTLY when the little baby will be "delivered", but as labor begins (I feel like we are at the braxton hix labor pains now) and as the time gets closer we'll know because it will intensify. 

President Monson said in the Priesthood Session in April 2009, 

"In the world today we face difficulties and challenges, some of which can seem truly daunting. 

However, with God on our side we cannot fail. "

I think that is incredibly powerful. So, if you need to, get a q-tip and open your ears to hear what the prophets have taught. We will be so thankful that we opened our ears and chose to obey.