"Columbus Day" (“In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue.”) For centuries, Christopher Columbus (1451-1506) has been revered and celebrated for his lasting contributions to humanity. Historians agree that Columbus was “a courageous and brilliant navigator and explorer during the age of European exploration.” “His voyages revealed two continents new to Europe and bridged the gap … Continue reading Judging Columbus – The “Columbus Exchange”
Two Minor Miracles of Divine Providence
"Sunday Sermon" “The Lord Provides” We have been blessed by the tender mercies of the Lord and His miracles of divine providence. Miracle #1: The Missing Tupperware Money Throughout law school, my wife and I were poor. For dates, we walked to BYU campus to watch their TV since we couldn't afford our own. Once … Continue reading Two Minor Miracles of Divine Providence
America needs more “Statesmen” and fewer “Politicians”
"Commentary" "American History" America is in desperate need of more statesmen and fewer politicians. The midterm elections are upon us. We have important choices to make. Will we elect more statesmen or more politicians? Statesmen versus Politicians Politicians know how to get elected. Statesmen know how to govern. Politicians think of the next election. Statesmen … Continue reading America needs more “Statesmen” and fewer “Politicians”
Young LDS Drunk Driver
One of my first assignments in the OC DA's Office was in the courtroom of Judge Ragnar Engebretsen. Judge Engebretsen was a faithful member of the LDS Church, and a senior high councilor in his stake at the time. We had completed our work for the day, and I was gathering my case files when … Continue reading Young LDS Drunk Driver
“Practical Benefits” of LDS Church Membership
"Sunday Sermon" and "Personal Experiences" I grew up in the Church. Every personal success or achievement I may have had, I owe to the Lord and His restored Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. There are innumerable collateral "practical benefits" of membership in the Lord's Church. Here are a few. Public Speaking and Teaching … Continue reading “Practical Benefits” of LDS Church Membership
My Highway Patrol Uncle Gave His Wife and President McKay Speeding Tickets
"Court Case Friday" My grandfather's brother, "Uncle Ted," served in the Utah Highway Patrol (UHP), rising from trooper to acting colonel/superintendent. He had a reputation for absolute integrity. He firmly believed in equal justice - “No one is above the law.” He Gave His Wife a Ticket Trooper Ted gave his wife a traffic ticket. … Continue reading My Highway Patrol Uncle Gave His Wife and President McKay Speeding Tickets
Exaltation and Deification — Becoming like our Heavenly Father
"Sunday Sermon" "Doctrinal Commentary" One of the many distinctive doctrines of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is that man can become like God. As sons and daughter of our Heavenly Father, we can become His heirs, and joint heirs with Christ. As his children, we can inherit and share His divine nature. … Continue reading Exaltation and Deification — Becoming like our Heavenly Father
Your schnoz can distinguish a TRILLION odors
"Fun Facts Saturday" The Amazing Human Nose In a 1920 study, scientists concluded that the human nose could distinguish about 10,000 different odors. This was far below other senses. For example, our eyes can identify several million different colors, and our ears can discern about a half million different tones. In a major study in … Continue reading Your schnoz can distinguish a TRILLION odors
Defendant: “I am a God! You are a mere mortal!”
"Court Case Friday" One afternoon I had a large group of prisoners in the “cage” in my courtroom. I started advising them of their constitutional rights. One of the women suddenly interrupted me and screamed, “I don’t recognize you.” I thought to myself, “I don’t’ recognize you either.” She continued: Defendant: “I am a God! I don’t … Continue reading Defendant: “I am a God! You are a mere mortal!”
Least and Most Religious Countries (25 Top/Bottom)
"Sunday Sermon" "Fun Facts" The Rise of Modern Atheism Recently, atheism has been growing at its fastest rate in western culture. Leaders of the New Atheist Movement include the popular "Four Horsemen," Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett, Christopher Hitchens, and Sam Harris. They zealously and persuasively promote atheism on social media, books, articles, podcasts, and college … Continue reading Least and Most Religious Countries (25 Top/Bottom)









