My Stake President Was Reprimand by an Apostle for Using the Phrase “Only an Elder.”

I was serving as a young high councilor when our stake president was released, and a new stake president called.  Bruce R. McConkie, of the Council of the Twelve Apostles, was our conference visitor.  Elder McConkie was a spiritual and intellectual giant.  He was a “Lion of Righteousness” at the pulpit. His talks and texts … Continue reading My Stake President Was Reprimand by an Apostle for Using the Phrase “Only an Elder.” →

“Pain is a Good Thing.” A Life Lesson From the “Crocodile Hunter”

As one who has struggles with mild to severe chronic back pain, I take comfort from a statement Steve Irwin made on an episode of “The Crocodile Hunter.” This wildlife series was very popular. The Australian host demonstrated, and played with, dangerous animals. While filming an episode at the Great Barrier Reef, he died when … Continue reading “Pain is a Good Thing.” A Life Lesson From the “Crocodile Hunter” →

A Unique Homeless Lifestyle – Partying with Social Security Disability Checks

As a criminal prosecutor I worked on a murder case where the victim was a homeless man. The witnesses were a group of ten homeless men who lived under an overpass on the Santa Ana River in Orange County. Their lifestyle was unique and interesting. The men banded together. They each received a monthly check … Continue reading A Unique Homeless Lifestyle – Partying with Social Security Disability Checks →

My DNA Results: “Whiter” Than Ivory Soap

Family History Research and DNA Test My wife "forced” me to get a DNA test. My genealogy already revealed my ancestors come from northwest Europe: Britain and Scandinavia. Hope For "Mixed Samoan Race" I was hoping the DNA results would identify me as mixed race, part Samoan I always wanted to be Samoan. I love … Continue reading My DNA Results: “Whiter” Than Ivory Soap →

“God Wanted Him Caught”–Case of the Dangerous Stalker

I have handled a few serious cases where the investigators were convinced that they were aided by Divine Providence. The detectives declared: “God wanted him caught.” The Dangerous Stalker I presided over the first case under California’s new felony stalking law.  The defendant was obsessed with the female victim. The victim’s life became a nightmare. … Continue reading “God Wanted Him Caught”–Case of the Dangerous Stalker →

Testimony and Tears: Spiritual or Emotional?

Spirit and Emotion The church website addressed the following question: “A lot of people cry when they feel the Spirit, but I don’t. Is there something wrong with me?” This question highlights the possible confusion between a spiritual experience and an emotional experience. The most common type of personal revelation does come from thoughts accompanied … Continue reading Testimony and Tears: Spiritual or Emotional? →

My Most Embarrassing Legal Typos

My handwriting has always been awful. I can't even read my own writing. Fortunately, I have used a typewriter and keyboard since sixth grade. Not counting typos, I am faster on the keyboard than any of my secretaries. I am known for speed, but not accuracy. I am also a poor proofreader. Thank goodness for … Continue reading My Most Embarrassing Legal Typos →

“We Believe in Governments” – D&C 134:1

Civic Duty is a Divine Commandment D&C 134:1 We believe that governments were instituted of God for the benefit of man; and that he holds men accountable for their acts in relation to them, both in making laws and administering them, for the good and safety of society. David O. McKay: “Let me assure you that someday … Continue reading “We Believe in Governments” – D&C 134:1 →

A Vietnamese Judge Reminds Us Americans “What We Have”

 In Honor of the Fourth of July I was privileged to be the mentor judge for Nho Nguyen, the first Vietnamese-American judge in the country. He is a living hero. A Living Hero In college, he protested the South Vietnam military dictatorship and led a student democratic movement. He risked his life to establish freedom … Continue reading A Vietnamese Judge Reminds Us Americans “What We Have” →

Rogue Cops Destroy a Family July 4th Celebration Creating an Ethical Dilemma for Me

Police Officers --The Bad Apples I have been honored to serve along side law enforcement officers for over forty years. I cannot think of a finer group of men and women. However, in every profession there are bad apples. There is nothing worse for the reputation and credibility of law enforcement than “dirty” or “rogue” … Continue reading Rogue Cops Destroy a Family July 4th Celebration Creating an Ethical Dilemma for Me →