Friday, February 13, 2009

It's Not Easy Being Green

At the risk of being ridiculed or scoffed at for being too open, let me briefly pull back the author/researcher curtain to let you see the inner mulling and musing of the mind behind all these “peculiar” notions.

To put it simply, I’m at the end of my rope. And I have been for some time.

Kermit the Frog sings a woeful little tune that best characterizes my predicament. “It’s not easy being green,” he chants, plaintively. I know how that feels when your fellow church members perceive you as the purveyor of odd knowledge, someone saying something different than what they’re accustomed to hearing.

Like the Whos in Whoville, I cry out, “I am here. I am here! I am here!!” But, no one hears. No one sees.

You see, to the majority of church members, I’m invisible … and so is my research. I believe I have stumbled across a most valuable truth, one that was once fairly common knowledge among early church members, one that was taught by Joseph Smith and preserved in our temples. That’s what I work to share with my fellow Saints. But, therein lies the rub. Very few care to hear it.

Actually, I feel more like Horton than the Whos. I know what I know to be true. But most Mormons don’t believe me because of their preconceptions. They prefer to reject me and my “strange notions,” dismissing me as a kook or a fraud rather than examining the issues more closely. Strangely, others see me as a threat, worthy only of their disdain and reprehension. They seek to suppress my ideas.

Just so you know, here’s my song. It’s a little longer than Kermit’s, but it rhymes just about as well. It sounds like this …

About 30 years ago, I came across a book that changed my whole view of the Restored Gospel. The concepts presented in that book set me on a path that led me first to the comprehension of past planetary catastrophes, then to prophecy, to the language of the prophets, to obscure statements by Joseph Smith, to a completely revised understanding of ancient planetary history, to an interpretation of religious symbolism worldwide and finally to a thoroughgoing grasp of latter-day temple symbolism and ritual (not necessarily in that order).

If that sounds to you like a lot of ground to cover, it is. It took me into heady intellectual country — Hugh Nibley kind of stuff — a place I never dreamed I might venture. But true to my quest, I soldiered on, invigorated by the soul-expanding concepts that periodically washed over my mind and heart like emotional and intellectual tidal waves.

It took years of study, research and a willingness to follow the clues—no matter how unlikely or unpopular they seemed to be. But, it was worth every moment because this study, which began with a burning desire to understand the scriptures, has opened doors to knowledge and understanding that I never expected find, least of all to open. Just when I think this line of inquiry has yielded all there is to learn, it inevitably shows me more.

As a result, my testimony of Joseph Smith and the Restored Gospel has expanded beyond anything I thought humanly possible. My understanding of gospel principles is more profound, by many orders of magnitude, than I had ever imagined. And perhaps most importantly, I can ‘read’ the temple experience as though it were a book or a familiar and treasured story.

What about you? When you read prophecy, is the imagery and message crystal clear? Or is it confusing and bewildering? When you contrast present scientific views with the scriptural record, do you start scratching your head? When you attend the temple, is the intent and the meaning of each ritual and all its symbolism as plain as a child’s primer? When you try to make sense of these things, does your head start to hurt and your brain begin to reel? As I did at first, do you simply avoid contemplating all these things because it all seems too much like an exercise in futility?

Given those nagging misgivings and because most of these things are a mystery to most Saints, you’d think that they’d be anxious to get a few pointers. But, just the opposite is true. In my experience, any effort to draw attention to these gospel blind spots is met with suspicion and disbelief. Rather than ask questions, they begin to avoid me, ignore me, criticize me or pretend I’m not even in the same church.

So, it’s not easy being seen. In fact, it’s a lot of hard work. I’ve labored for over 30 years in an effort to gain a foothold on the LDS imagination. I’ve written books, prepared and given daylong lectures with a slideshow, produced a documentary, several video clips with 3D animation, created a web page advertising my ideas and a blog that contains the results of years of research and study. None of that was easy. It cost me precious personal time and considerable resources. Yet after all that, I don’t seem to be getting significant traction among my fellow Saints.

So, here’s the question at the heart of the matter: How does an average Latter-day Saint like myself with a vital message make his voice heard in the church? Since I’m not a General Authority, how do I make an impression on others? What can I do to make enough of an impression that most Mormons will inquire further? After trying every initiative I can think of to put this information in front of church members, what more can I do that I’ve not already tried? I’m flat out of initiatives.

So, that’s my sad song. Like Kermit, it’s not easy being green.

So, what do you think? How can I put this message before the membership? What approach can I take that I have not taken already? Which among you cares to lend a supportive hand? Who can point me down the path to access? Any ideas?

© Anthony E. Larson, 2009

40 comments:

In The Doghouse said...

Dear Friend,
I have spent the better part of the last three days reading your blog and watching your YouTube Videos and still feel like I have barely touched the surface of what you have to offer.
I believe there are many like you who have applied the merits of "law" and have been blessed in great measure because of that application.
Continual study with guidance from the spirit can yield great things. You are not alone.
You are right however, it is not easy being green (try being green and a woman in the church! lol) but Joseph Smith would still be considered "green" by most, so perhaps you are just in good company.
IMHO if you can open the eyes of one person to help them search out the truth, than it is worth any amount of time that you have spent sharing.
Many are simply satisfied with the philosophies of men, mingled with scriptures and are so caught in the tradition of their fathers especially those in the Church, that they choose to be blinded to the spiritual promptings they may receive.
I have no suggestions for appealing to the masses, nor do I really want to. I simply will be happy to find one who can be enlightened by the spirit with some pointers in the right direction.
"We are here, we are here, we are here!"
Keep writing.

Suzie's Views said...

I have enjoyed reading your blogs this past month. I don't even remember how I stumbled upon it but I'm glad I did.
I am now doing my own reading and studying on the Electric Universe and the origins of the worlds mythologies. I am gaining a new perspective on the gospel and hope that it will increase my understanding of the Temple.
I really appreciate the work you have done to share what you have learned so freely with others.
Most importantly I have been touched by your testimony of the prophet Joseph Smith.
Thanks

Jan Kate Brower Arnell said...

I have followed you for years and continue to refer back to your Trilogy and am excited each time you pick up your pen... I believe that what you postulate is what Abraham took to the Egyptians, and a portion of which is contained in the sealed portion fo the Book or Mormon... sealed because the Church would be laughed to scorn if it was released too soon. It's been a long journey but the world is coming around and will beating a path to your door when "the sign" appears...

Zaggner said...

I am new to your blog. I have read the Mormon Mystic blog and saw your comment. I am excited to read yours and learn from what you have to share. It may be too soon for me to comment, but for what it's worth, here is my two cents.

I feel the Church and the General Authorities provide the message for the masses. It is simple, basic, and rote. And it is perfect. It is really the only thing that we as members need to hear from the brethren. It is the message the Lord wants us to hear. If the Lord wanted the brethren to tell us more you can be assured that they would tell us more.

But listen closely. The message they give us is the basics. But they do not tell us that we should not delve beyond that. Quite the contrary. It is our responsibility to increase ourselves spiritually to be able to fully learn and appreciate the entire message that the Lord has for us. It is something we all must do on our own. It is not the brethren place to do it, nor any other man. It is between us and the Lord.

That’s not to say that we can’t help each other out. We can learn and study together. The Lord can lead us to various material that can help to increase our understanding and knowledge. It does not have to be the standard works. In fact, my appreciation of the Gospel and my testimony of the truthfulness of the Restored Church have come from many sources outside of the standard works. Inspiration can come from many places, many works and many materials. We’ll recognize the truths by the Spirit. It doesn’t have to be in the standard works to be true. “Be willing to receive the truth, let it come from whom it may; no difference, not a particle. Just as soon receive the Gospel from Joseph Smith as from Peter, who lived in the days of Jesus. Receive it from one man as soon as another. If God has called an individual and sent him to preach the Gospel that is enough for me to know; it is no matter who it is, all I want is to know the truth.” (Brigham Young, DBY, 11). There is nothing better than the standard works to help us to draw closer to God. But that does not mean that there is nothing else. I am a convert as a result of an anti-Mormon book.

I agree with “Doghouse”. Be appreciative that there are a “few” who may benefit from your knowledge. Parables weren’t meant for the masses either.

Kyle said...

I just discovered your research and writings recently, and have been inspired and thrilled by the new insights and perspectives you've discovered. Keep up the good work, those who are interested in what you are doing will find out about your work.

J.A.G. Fehr said...

I am not overly mighty in speaking, but i felt inclined to give you these two pearls from the scriptures.

Matthew 13
10 And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?
11 He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.
12 For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.
13 Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.

And
Article of faith 13
13 We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul—We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.

I know these don't particularly answer your questions, but I hope they help anyway.

I'm not really able to help you really, because I have yet to experience the temple rituals so I am unable to draw comparisons yet, but given just the arguments you present, there are some truly fascinating thing in there.

I was turned onto your theories when my mother found a dust copy of your prophecy trilogy. Since then, I've looked into your work and have been reading your blog ever since. Not every dismisses you.

kss said...

A couple of weeks ago I had a friend hand me your Prophecy trilogy books. She knew how much I enjoy the subjects that you discuss. At first look I was ready to dismiss them as just another misguided interpretation, but there were key things that rang so true that I could not dismiss them and I have started on my own road of further study and understanding. I teach gospel doctrine in my ward and have come to understand that there are many who do not even understand the basic principles of the gospel that are critical to their salvation. At church there never seems to be enough time to even get into a good discussion to expound and bring clarity to the basics. I also attend a weekly scripture study class where we do take the time to do a more through study. Even there, when these subjects come up with the few things that are in the manuals where the prophets and apostles have shared about them, it isn't long until it is just going over the heads of the learners and they just don't have enough basic understanding to take in more. And so I find myself in the same position as you, wanting to share the things I am learning because of the blessing and enrichment it brings to my own life, but unable to find those who understand enough to have a good discussion.
I am grateful to you for the work and study that you have put in, and am looking forward to spending more time reading your works and studying these things that you have opened my eyes to seeing.

Tim Malone said...

Perhaps a gathering of endorsements by other regular members of the church would be helpful. You know you polorize those who read your writings. We are either adamantly in support of and agreement with your writings or are dismissive and critical of your many years of research. There doesn't seem to be any middle gound. You might want to revisit the forum that you used to run. Maybe it was just a little ahead of its time. Have members identify themselves as in support of or opposed to your views. I, for one, am clearly in support.

Anonymous said...

Dear Bro. Larson:
I hear you. I have felt the same dissapointing feeling as I have been trying for years to let people in my church know about the dangers of vaccination. My little boy as thousands of children got autism from vaccines, which I have been researching for years, and I wanted to warn other parents. They do not want to hear about it.
I have stopped my efforts after a while. I am still active in my autism city group working with others who do want to hear and learn about this matter. I also have several groups in the internet and share my experiences and knowledge with people from several countries.
Please feel appreciated by the ones who want to hear and learn from your research. Be here for us, and for the other ones who have ears to hear, and eyes to see.
You were blessed with an amazing gift that will benefit many.
Blessings.

Anonymous said...

just a thought.... while I understand your desire to "shout from the rooftops" what you have found, perhaps it's less important how many lives you touch and more important how this has touched your life.

Sometimes I wonder how our Father in Heaven feels, he can't/won't force Himself on us, but He wants so badly for us to make choices every day that lead us back to Him.

...just a thought, good luck....

Anonymous said...

It's time to form an online community, maybe a real community. Soon will be a time of great upheaval for humankind. It will be important that a coherent view of what is real be passed down.

Anonymous said...

Well, I just found this blog and am now starting to read it. Sounds interesting. One thing the disturbs me though, is the eternal whine of the philospher - "Why doesn't anyone pay any attention to me?" After all, each of us must follow our own journey and find our own faith and understanding. That should be enough for anyone! If no one else listens, well and good - you still know what you know.

Anonymous said...

Hi Anthony,

I am perhaps not as familiar with your writings and videos as are others who have responded.

In this regard, I appreciate what Joseph Smith told Brigham Young at Winter Quarters, "Do you be sure and tell the brethren that it is all important for them to keep the spirit of the Lord, To keep the quiet spirit of Jesus, and he explained how the spirit of the Lord reflected on the spirit of man and set him to pondering on any subject, and also explained how to know the spirit of the Lord from the spirit of the enemy.

He said the mind of man must be open to receive all spirits, in order to be prepared, to receive the spirit of the Lord; otherwise it might be barred so as not to receive the spirit of the Lord, which always brings peace and makes one happy and takes away every other spirit. When the small still voice speaks always receive it, and if the people will do these things, when they come up to the father, all will be as in the beginning, and every person stand as at the first" (Brigham Young's Vision of Joseph Smith).

Anonymous said...

Bro. Larson,

I've just finished reading your Prophecy Trilogy for the first time, and have probably read every one of your blog posts over the last couple of weeks. I feel like I have a new perspective on the imagery in the scriptures, regardless of whether all of your conclusions turn out to be accurate. I definitely have a new eye for the interpretation of literal and metaphorical symbolism in the scriptures. In addition, I appreciate your comments throughout your writing (I paraphrase here) that all of us need to strike out on our own to find the truth in all things, and look to the prophets, both ancient and modern, for guidance.

I'd be interested in knowing how your perspectives have been changing and expanding in the 20 years since your books have been published, and what kinds of things prompted those changes.

Unknown said...

Pete,

I'm pleased to learn that you and so many others are beginning to see the value in this line of thinking.

The postings on my blog represent my work since publishing my books. If you care to know more, you're welcome to send questions via email to anthonyelarson@starband.net where I can respond at length.

Candice3000 said...

Come on. Look what the pharisees and scribes did to the Savior. Today's Living Prophets have trouble being heard, and I think their pretty simple and clear messages.
Did you think because you found your answers to some of the Mysteries of God, that you would be set ahead of those He has ordained to Lead?
You've been blessed with the confirming hand of the Lord laid upon his prophets and apostles with the enlightenment you've received. You have testified to that over and over again, when you state, the information shared, in no way conflicts with the Restored Gospel.
The Lord has blessed you with a knowledge that his Prophet and Apostles are indeed at the helm of his Church.
What more do want or need? Jesus is the Christ the son of the Living God. The Prophet is His spokesman.
Has the Lord blessed you in your research so much that you've gotten lost to why you began it?
Each of us find our way back in very personal ways. When all is said and done, what is the true purpose of your research other than to prove to self, "It's True."
May the Lord continue you, and bless your research, and efforts, in a way that provides enlightenment of these truths to others.

Paul said...

After reading the comments made by Jazz3000, I thought I would make a few of my own. It is very easy to be critical of others, especially when you have no understanding of their plight. It's like trying to teach Calculus to a group of people who's minds have been prepared for basic arithmatic. The struggle is in trying to lift their minds to a higher sphere where they can understand advanced mathematics.

Although to a smaller degree, Tony Larson's struggle is very much like Joseph Smith's. How many times did Joseph Smith cry to the early saints that he was NOT a fallen prophet? I've lost count. How many times did Joseph Smith whine to the congregation about how much he wanted to dig into the mysteries and lift their minds into a higher sphere where they could be taught greater knowledge? But he couldn't because the over righteous among them would not have it.

To tell you the truth, it is best not to be critical of anyone unless you are in a position to judge them righteously.

The following quotes help to describe Joseph's difficulty with the early saints:

“I will also remark that I am sensible that no man can speak to a congregation of people upon any subject, only according to the intelligence that is in the people. There are quite a number of this congregation who knew Joseph Smith the Prophet, and he use to say in Nauvoo that when he came before the people he felt as though he were enclosed in an iron case, his mind was closed by the influences that were thrown around him; he was curtailed in his wishes and desires to do good; there was no room for him to expand, hence he could not make use of the revelations of God as he would have done; there was no room in the hearts of the people to receive the glorious truths of the Gospel that God revealed to him.” – Heber C. Kimball (JD 10:233-234, June 27, 1863)

“There are a great many wise men and women too in our midst who are too wise to be taught; therefore they must die in their ignorance, and in the resurrection they will find their mistake. Many seal up the door of heaven by saying, So far God may reveal and I will believe.” – Joseph Smith (HC 5:424)

“I have tried for a number of years to get the minds of the Saints prepared to receive the things of God; but we frequently see some of them, after suffering all that they have for the work of God, will fly to pieces like glass as soon as anything come that is contrary to their traditions: they cannot stand the fire at all. How many will be able to abide a celestial law, and go through and receive their exaltation, I am unable to say, as many are called, but few are chosen.” – Joseph Smith (HC 6:185)

“But there has been a great difficulty in getting anything into the heads of this generation. It has been like splitting hemlock knots with a corn-dodger for a wedge, and a pumpkin for a beetle. Even the Saints are slow to understand.” – Joseph Smith (HC 6:185)

“But I beg leave to say unto you, brethren, that ignorance, superstition and bigotry placing itself where it ought not, is oftentimes in the way of the prosperity of this Church; like the torrent of rain from the mountains, that floods the most pure and crystal stream with mire, and dirt, and filthiness, and obscures everything that was clear before.” – Joseph Smith (HC 3:296-297)

“Many men will say, “I will never forsake you, but will stand by you at all times.” But the moment you teach them some of the mysteries of the Kingdom that are retained in the heavens and are to be revealed to the children of men when they are prepared for them they will be the first to stone you and put you to death. It was this same principle that crucified the Lord Jesus Christ, and will cause the people to kill the prophets in this generation.” – Joseph Smith (HC 5:424)

Anonymous said...

Dear Anthony, I only found you late last year and am trying to get the money to order your books. I am totally fascinated and blown away by your knowledge. If others do not want to seek further, learn more, grow closer to God, then mores the pity. However, there are those of us who hunger and thrist for the gifts you have to bestow upon our landscape of intelligence. Please don't stop, don't give up and don't worry about the "crowd". I am sure I speak for anyone who has seriously read anything you have written, we all love and appreciate you. Your faithful, if new, supporter, Bev.

Anonymous said...

I was just shown your website by my mother. I am so happy to find someone who can back up the future events that I had been studying about from scripture and quotes from Joseph Smith. I once heard a quote and I apologize that I don't know who it was by, but it went along the lines that we as members of the church don't take the scriptures literal enough. Sometimes I want to scream from the roof tops too of the things yet to come and tell ones that I love to get their crap together. Then I have to take a few steps back and realize that we are all here to prove ourselves and learn are own lessons. We are here to work out our own salvation. People are only teachable when they ask questions. Those that are ready to learn will at their own pace. We are here to accept and love one another as is. I think you have a wealth of knowledge and am so grateful that you are so willing to share it with others. Don't give attention to those who oppose you with such great opposition and embrace the people who appreciate your hard work. From reading your blog you have a lot of supporters. Keep it up!

Bethie Marie said...

Hope you will continue to update your blog. I'm reading the first book of your trilogy and it is fasinating and makes good sense.
I've just subscribed to your monthly email newsletter.
Hope you will keep writing and
not be discouraged by closed-
minds who aren't ready to hear
new ideas. Prophecy and end time
signs and signals are all over the
news these days. Probably more and more people will be willing to listen and learn as time goes by.
God Bless!

Beth

Round Belly said...

Thank you for your work. About a month ago I asked in prayer for better understanding of Revelations. Then I ran across your blog- and my husband and I have been working on reading everything here since then.

There are definitely truths that clarify so much hidden in your writings ( I say hidden because there are no easy top 10 lists or things). It has all really expanded my understanding and view point. Thank you for opening my eyes.

I will share what I have learned with those who will listen. (most likely my kids)

Vince said...

Sir,

Don't give up hope. Truth, with increased wickedness, slowly but often quickly becomes the minority or "incorrect" answer. I stumbled upon your blog last night and am, to say the least, fascinated! Keep posting for the number who believe and follow your postings. I have only been able to scratch the surface but know in time I will spend many sleepless nights researching this new information. I am one, like yourself, who loves and admires and searches out the truth. Thank you for sharing your wisdom!

Steve said...

Brother Larson,

I have read your books and the blogs. The Lord has blessed you with a great intellect. An intellect that is not hampered by dogma or closed mindedness like so many are, as you are well aware. The Lord has led many people to you, many more than you know. Your research and hard work has not gone for naught. The people that need to find you and benefit from your knowledge, have found you, and more are finding you every day.

You want to reach out to the world and help people see what you see, to know what you know, to feel what you feel, because it is so exciting and inspiring. Christ wanted this also.

There are many good comments here from people you have reached. I can only reiterate what many of them have said. Take heart in the fact that the people that are meant to "hear, see, feel and know" what you have found, will. You obviously know it is a message that many people will never understand or care to even try. Your prayers and sincere feelings for your brothers and sisters to understand and be enlightened have truly been received and felt.

Alas, you also know that many in the church and we as a people are under condemnation. The vast majority will never hear you when we can't even tend to the basics the Lord needs us to.

27 And no man receiveth a fulness unless he keepeth his commandments.
28 He that keepeth his commandments receiveth truth and light, until he is glorified in truth and knoweth all things.
29 Man was also in the beginning with God. Intelligence, or the light of truth, was not created or made, neither indeed can be.
30 All truth is independent in that sphere in which God has placed it, to act for itself, as all intelligence also; otherwise there is no existence.
31 Behold, here is the agency of man, and here is the condemnation of man; because that which was from the beginning is plainly manifest unto them, and they receive not the light.
32 And every man whose spirit receiveth not the light is under condemnation.

(DnC | Section 93:27 - 32)

Brother Larson, please never give up hope that your message is not reaching out to your brothers and sisters, it is.

mckay said...

Immanuel Velikovsky didn't get much credence either... and he is largely ignored today, though many of his predictions came true and he was respected highly by Einstein...

The world isn't ready for it.. but when celestial events start to happen, rest assured there will be a paradigm shift and people will be anxious to embrace these types of teachings.

Remember, the prophets are usually mocked and stoned... not embraced. Often declaring truth, or alternate views comes at a cost, but eventually truth bears out.

Sharon in Mississippi said...

I LOVE being green, have been green all my life, and am tickled pink to meet another "greenie." (LOL)

Your words bring back fond and bittersweet memories of a time some 20 years ago when I made some "electrifying" discoveries of my own (with the help of some dear fellow LDS "frogs") about the nature of health and healing from the standpoint of the ancients. At least some of their methods still work.

Yes, I've had the experience of applying my hands in such a way as to generate intense subtle energy currents that effected speedy, even miraculous healing when no other means of help was available.

I sing the body electric! (And keep my mouth shut about it in "polite" LDS company.)

Yippee yippee yay--I'm one hoppy frog today--for having found an old frog friend like you again after all these years.

I read your Trilogy series when it first came out and look forward to reading it again very soon. A seller on Amazon.com had just ONE complete set of your books left. Guess who bought it? :)

Hope these words bring a smile to your face, and help lighten your load. Keep running the race!

Warmly and Positive-ly Yours,
Sharon in Mississippi

M.E. Stacy said...

Dear Brother Larson...I am your friend and your brother. I am proud to be in your company. Apparently...only a "few" will make it through the dark and misty fog to the tree of life. I am grateful for your help in finding the "rod of iron."
About the brethren (and this is my opinion) I do not believe their message is "perfect" because it does not include any of this material. This material is a MAJOR portion of the TRUTH! The brethren may not teach it because possibly they don't see eye to eye with it themselves (they are as fallible as the next guy. The saints have a terrible problem believing that the brethren are perfect. They are NOT! The misunderstanding between the ideology of "infallibility" and "free agency" simply amazes me) Or...it could be...because more than likely...the saints don't deserve it. Either way...this very important message has not fallen from their lips! Why shouldn't our LEADERS LEAD US IN ALL THINGS? Free agency is a gift that will get us there...or keep us out! Like the Lord said..."the truth shall set you free!" I am grateful for what you have done to help set some of us free. Brother Larson...you should NOT be "barked at" by someone that doesn't understand what has happened to the Lord's church. You should be thanked for caring enough about your fellow man...that you would help take up the slack...that you would spend you own time and money and resources...when others are too content to just..."go with the flow!"
Ha...while you will be inside the "Celestial Snack Bar" enjoying a hot dog and root beer "on the house"...the rest of us will be outside in the heat with our noses pressed up against the windows wishing we had done as much! :) God bless you Brother Larson...for your message has been worthy and YOU are a saint!

Anonymous said...

You have been my teacher for the last few weeks as my continued research for knowledge of the end of times led me to your website and videos. I, like the others who commented, ask that you not give up.

I believe that our prophet and the general authorities must spend their time teaching the milk of the gospel, rather then the meat, until we as a church are ready for more! Maybe that time will come when we suddenly are faced with the increased hardships that we know are heading our way. (I can guarantee more Saints will seek the info you share as the end draws nearer!)

It is up to each individual to search, ponder, and pray for further truth and light and to find answers to the questions that drive them. For some people, family history is most important. For others, it is missionary work. We are each, as worthy members of the gospel, given spiritual gifts that should be used to bless and lift others. In my Patriarchal Blessing, I am specifically told to learn what I can about the wrapping-up scenes so that I can help lead my family members and associates to safety. I believe this is one of my spiritual gifts, and definitely yours as well (yours on a much grander scale :). It is your gift to have a desire to know more about the things you study, to be led to your answers, and to eloquently pen your conclusions and insight. As with all spiritual gifts, it is then your responsibility to share it. Not all are ready or able to hear you yet, but please keep sharing it! (Just like all are not willing to work on their family history when that is such an important thing, or be member-missionaries despite the commandment to be such!)

I have been blessed by your work. My perspective on revelation and prophecy, and so much more has changed. I look forward to re-reading scripture and the writings of our prophets with new eyes.

P.S. We would forgive you, if in order to keep you from burning out, you slow down your work! (Just a little though - I can't wait too long until I get to read what you write next!)

loopy said...

I was led line upon line directly to this site in miraculous, tenderly merciful ways when I asked the questions and when I was ready. Had it been otherwise, I would not have recognized the value in what I had been shown. Many are afraid of falling out of the mainstream because there are those whom we have witnessed fall right out of the church. Satan is deceitful.
Fear is trapping many.
The General Authorities are pointing us to personal revelation so much now and to seeking the Spirit to teach us. This is the way the Lord will teach these things-at least for now. Moses wanted the people to have revelation for themselves but they would not. They wanted him to spoon feed them-it seemed easier. I am learning to recognize my feelings in discerning truth. I felt so bubbling over joyful and grateful as my questions were being answered on this site. I felt more excited than a kid on Christmas Eve! I even giggled outloud a few times out of joy as I read. Thank you. You are a part of my preparing to help prepare the earth for His coming.

Another thought - Look at the way that the revelation on the priesthood, the word of wisdom and other landmark events were recieved when enough questions were asked and enough prayers were prayed. When the time was right and the people were seeking.

IRAQ said...

You are on track! You must keep going and keep the faith.

I have a bunch of quotes on my blog that you might enjoy reading. We are close to seeing this stuff come about and radical things happen to this earth.

Can't wait to dig more into this site and enjoy the fruit of your labors!

maxaboy said...

I feel the same to what Zaggner said.The General Authorities teach the simple things to the church because most members are simple minded.milk before the meat,walk before you crawl ect.there are thurths in all things i like your blogs i and i feel the same way.they bring to light things that are not exspland.
we need to teach each ohter the things of the fullnees of the gosple.

Doctine and Covenants 88
74 And I give unto you, who are the first alaborers in this last kingdom, a commandment that you assemble yourselves together, and organize yourselves, and prepare yourselves, and bsanctify yourselves; yea, purify your hearts, and ccleanse your hands and your feet before me, that I may make you dclean;
75 That I may testify unto your aFather, and your God, and my bGod, that you are clean from the cblood of this wicked generation; that I may fulfil this promise, this great and last dpromise, which I have made unto you, when I will.
76 Also, I give unto you a commandment that ye shall continue in aprayer and fasting from this time forth.
77 And I give unto you a commandment that you shall ateach one another the bdoctrine of the kingdom.
78 Teach ye diligently and my agrace shall attend you, that you may be binstructed more perfectly in theory, in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in all things that pertain unto the kingdom of God, that are expedient for you to understand;
79 Of things both in aheaven and in the earth, and under the earth; things which have been, things which are, things which must bshortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad; the wars and the perplexities of the cnations, and the judgments which are on the land; and a dknowledge also of countries and of kingdoms—
80 That ye may be prepared in all things when I shall send you again to amagnify the calling whereunto I have called you, and the bmission with which I have commissioned you.
For some time nnow or for 4 years now.Ive been ready lots of infomation for exsample
Dr Immanuel Velikovsky,David Talbott SYMBOLS OF AN ALIEN SKY,
Andy Lloyd Dark Star and Zecharia Sitchin.

Now i dont follow everything that they say but lots of they info has thurth.so i feel what you feel and just remember that some people are not ready to here or to see and understand what you know.

Just Jenne said...

I have just discovered you! I love everything you are saying and feel it's truth in my bones. Don't get discouraged. It's like the Lord said--Line upon line--and then he taught in parables too, so that those who were ready to hear would understand, and so those who were not ready, would not be held accountable for knowledge they had and disregarded. Very compassionate on His part. I have read much of Hugh Nibley, ancient manuscripts, etc., and was just searching for more and came across your site. I guess I was ready--but you're right--many are not ready yet. Just be patient--you can't force it on people. :)

Chris said...

You teach deep doctrine. I think you just need to understand that not everyone is at a level where they are ready and willing to hear deep doctrines of the gospel. The Lord understands that and that is why he teaches us line upon line, and precept upon precept. The Lord gives us the Holy Ghost and through the truth of the Holy Ghost we can know the truth of all things. Also sometimes you seem to have a negative stand towards the present day church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. This to me is off putting and leaves me with a feeling that you know a lot, but you still don't understand. Just because the bretheren don't teach to the depth that you are at, doesn't make their authority, or message any less true. It is just the majority of the church is on one level and you are on another. This is why we receive and are entitled to personal revelation and personal instruction from the Holy Ghost. I don't know what to tell you. I appreciate your work. Sometimes I am uncomfortable when people bear testimony of you. Perhaps you should make it clear that you are just an instrument, the principals you teach are God's the credit needs to go to him. Unless your intention is to obtain a following that worships you... if it is please let me know so I can stop reading your blog. I will not support priestcraft.

Chris said...

You also should not assume, or allow others posting comments to assume, that if people don't understand your research, they are ignorant, dumb, and can't get into heaven or be saved. Some of the comments left by others are filled with the spirit of contention and stink of a pride that says that they, once again, might know a lot, but they still don't understand a thing. The more you know the more humble you should be. Moses learned the truths that you teach directly from God in a vision of the cosmos, and it caused him to fall to the earth and say, For this cause I know that man is nothing. Knowledge = Humility. The Savior Knew all and He never treated anyone the way some of the people who post on your blog do. If you do not go out of your way to gently correct and even rebuke these people, it conveys a message that you agree with it and support it.

steppin luci said...

Anthony,
I personaly want to thank you. I am grateful for the information that you have so painstakingly put together. It has taken me a couple days to wrap my head around it but it has changed my perspective. I am sharing it with my family.I truly think that sharing any gospel message, to those who need it, comes with such trials. Maybe to purify us with the resolve to carry on? Please carry on.

CarolinaDreamz said...

Before I read your comments, may I please just say that you are not an average Latter-day Saint. An average Latter-day Saint has their heads in the clouds of denial that JS or BY said 1/2 of what they did (Without regard to what they didn't.). Its sad to me.

And very hard to be one who wishes to expand their knowledge and shout it from the rooftops. I hear you. I'm listening. Please don't stop shouting in your over pleasant manners.

I love your articles, your blog, your emails. I can't get enough. I could never get enough. Please know that one person.. me.. appreciates you beyond measure.

Blessings to you, for all that you do.. ~Heidi

kimcoo said...

Hi Anthony,

What is the saying, that a prophet is never famous first in his own home town? I am not a LDS but have found in your blog answers to what the bible was really talking about that I have searched for years for mostly in vain.

I would love to help you put together something online for non LDS's

Your blog assumes that people reading it believe in things that non LDS's do not believe and also that they will have trouble believing things which many non LDS's do believe.

For instance I knew about the electric universe and that the creation story was not the creation of the world before I found your site. After looking through the Society for Interdisciplinary studies I somehow in my search for biblical interpretations of this knowledge found your blog.

So your site for the "outside world" needs to be kind of inside out to what you have here. On that site you can go heavy on the stuff you feel you have to go slowly on here such as new biblical interpretations and cutting edge science and lead more slowly into information on Joseph Smith and end time prophesy that you go heavy on here.

I know you say that there is no way except for divine revelation that Joseph Smith could have discovered these things but for non LDS's that is too early a leap of faith to ask them to make.

Maybe you will bring many non LDS's to the church in this way and that is what God intended your work to be, but to accomplish this I do believe you might first have to turn your approach inside out in this way.

Look at the popularity of Dan Brown's books which only pretend to know the things you really do.

When people come flooding to the LDS's church because of your work only then will the LDS's begin to see that you are not a liability but in fact their greatest asset.

Just my two cents worth as a professional online publisher and non LDS seeker of truth!

Kim Cooper

Anonymous said...

Anthony,
It is nice to read some of your thoughts and I do appreciate your concern over what you had hoped to share with others. As you have discovered most people are not ready to consider new ideas and reject them off hand. I have some thoughts that you might have difficulty excepting. Yet I have learned that many people do not wish to think. Look at what is accepted as entertainment on TV and the thousand other none thinking programs available to the average person; their reaction to your ideas are not unexpected. I have chosen to limit what I share, and with whom I share. I choose not to share my thoughts publicly, most people are not emotionally or intellectually prepared to hear new thoughts. If you've read this far, you are aware that I am not a writer. Mostly just a reader.

Tamsyn Spackman said...

This is an old thread, but I just want to say "Thank you." I am new here, and am reading your blog, which I plan to follow-up with your e-courses and books. I'm a young mother, and I "stumbled" across your material after my husband and I have been praying for a better understanding of the gospel, and the meaning of the temple covenants that we make. This blog has been very inspiring, and it most certainly will be changing the way that I teach my children. Maybe the LDS homeschooling movement would be a good place to share your ideas?

Again, thank you so very much for all of the work you have put into this site. I've been sharing it!

Anonymous said...

If you really want to know what I think about your question "How can you get your message out?"

I would say you have to get the Lord on your side, by preaching his Gospel, then he will direct people to you.

But as long as you still believe the current LDS Church is his church, I don't believe he will lead people to you, for the current LDS Church is no more true than the Catholic Church or any other Church on the earth. They are 'all' wrong and we should join none of them, just like God told Joseph.

For the Church that Joseph started quickly went into apostasy and lots it's Prophet, because the people wanted whoredoms more than they wanted to learn & live the truth.

Nathaniel said...

I just commented on another post - I'm LDS and studying Bodywork (/'Energy work'/Polarity Therapy).

I LOVE what I do. It's changed my world entirely and made my relationship to the Creator much much better, more sincere, and given my life more depth. I want to share it with EVERYBODY.

I've learned that there's a people here and there who are open to it, and those are who I need to be ready for. I definitely can't go about teaching people very much of it too directly or forcefully - It doesn't work against the defensive conscious mind as much as it does work WITH the Body and Heart and Spirit.

So I do find people who are open to it and I love working with them :) It's wonderful.

I feel they're things that most of the Western world is pretty uncomfortable with, but which, like you've been saying in your posts, fit perfectly into Scriptural context, and also the context of Joseph Smith's time (folk magic, etc).

So.... Yeah! Way to go! I don't know when the world at large will be ready for all this stuff but as I see it, crap is hitting the fan and people are opening their minds and hearts more. People are opening up to this and the Creator is guiding us all in time to where we need to be. We just need to learn to listen.

I am glad to find other resources that bridge LDS faith/History with Mysticism, Energy Work, pretty much any of these. I think there's something big in going this direction.