Month: July 2005

  • “. . . cigarettes and open air, hand in hand. I said stay with me, ‘cuz every star that I see is brighter than the last, so stay with me” (Finch).

    DBE_BG1 is officially redone. Please be honest in your feedback about the new site/skin. I have a 16 or so days during which I can change it. (I’m actually not a missionary until Aug. 16) Is it too yellow? hard to read? too complicated? too full of myself? to cheesy? Is it too dripping with evangelism? I don’t want it to be in your face, but I do want it to reflect my enthusiasm for the missionary work I am going to be doing for 2 years. (and I suppose also my enthusiasm, or rather addiction, to xanga) I assume that my posts will be more stream-lined and more focused on my mission, which is why I made the site more topic-centered. I put a lot of time into all the frequently asked questions and other links. FEEDBACK PLEASE! Click around and tell me what you think.

    Anyway. About today. This morning it was nice to watch Heather in her horse show at the county fair grounds. The last time I was there it was a Haunted House and Andy was telling me not to wet my pants.

    Tonight my brothers and I went to go see a movie. Though I wanted to see Sky High, they wanted Fantastic Four, so we went to see Fantastic Four. But guess what. At regal I guess the movie reel was broken or something so when we went to get our tickets they gave us free tickets to any other movie, so we ended up seeing Sky High anyway. It was *hesitates* good. I think I made it good in my mind. People not watching the movie through my mind might not be able to see that good that I saw. Disney does not know how to write wit into scripts. The one liners got old. The cheesiness that made the beginning great ended up being the movie’s downfall. It was too predictable all through out. And the villain was straight out of power rangers. I happened to force in there some themes that I liked, like between Will and his parents. But that’s just me.

    If I were you, I would watch the Incredible’s or X-men 2. You can pick up on similar themes, get a better plot, hear better dialogue, see better villains, etc. etc. Ok there should be tons of comments on here soon. I’m serious about the honest site feedback. (some of you I know I can count on for honesty)

    “After all that we’ve been through, I know we’re cool” (Gwen Stefani).

  • I am having a hard time being patient. I was going to wait until Aug. 1 to start up the new skin, but I am anxious for feedback on it and I want to show off all the stuff I’ve put together, so be prepared for a major site revamp tonight.

    P.S. All are invited to my house at any time between 7 and 10 pm on August 6th for a departure party. E-mail me for directions. Also, all are invited to hear my departure speech on August 14, 2005 at 9:00 am at the Buffalo Grove Stake Center on the intersection of Prairie Rd, Port Clinton Rd, and Buffalo Grove Rd. I am speaking during the 70 min. Sacrament Meeting. (click here to find out what to expect)

    The Redlands Temple: (outside, but near my mission)

    © 2004, Rick Satterfield.

    © 2003, David J. Vilt.

    I will actually be serving closer to the Los Angeles Temple, however. FYI: Temples are different from regular Churches (Ward Buildings and Stake Centers), of which there are many. There are relatively few Temples (the LDS equivalent to a Cathedral) which are reserved for sacred occasions like Weddings and are not used for weekly services.

    The Los Angeles Temple:

    © 2004, Rick Satterfield.

  • Why Are You Serving a Mission?

    This question is not easily answered. There are deep and personal reasons that I have for being out here as a missionary of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Some may think that it is too big a sacrifice to give up two years to spread a message about my faith for no pay. Some may think that I am presumptuous for spending my time convincing others to join my Church. While it is a big sacrifice, I believe that the message I bring is one that is too powerful and too wonderful to keep to myself. I would be selfish not to go around trying to convince others to taste of its deliciousness.

    I have been so blessed by a knowledge of the Restoration of the Gospel, by the testimony of Joseph Smith the prophet, by the power of the Book of Mormon, by the knowledge that I am a child of God, and above all by the Atonement of Jesus Christ our Savior. These things have made me a better person, helped me to feel good about myself, and brought me a lasting joy beyond any I have ever experienced. I hope and pray that the people of California can also find that joy.

    There are people out there searching for something to believe. There are people who are in desperate need of a change, of a new life. Some of them are abused or are abusive. Some of them struggle with unhealthy choices. Some of them are just tired or hopeless. Some of them are burdened by trials I can’t even imagine. Why should I not offer them a new way to live? Why should I not teach them about the things that have helped me carry my burdens? About the Holy One who has lightened my load? I believe, hope, and pray that I can bring the people in California the change they need and teach them about the Redeemer, Jesus Christ, and His restored Gospel. It is that Gospel, that beautiful message of joy and hope, that brings me to Arcadia.

  • What do you believe about Jesus Christ?

    I add my testimony to the testimony of the living apostles. Read their testimony of Christ by clicking here: The Living Christ

    I believe that Jesus is God. He created the Earth, and all things in the Universe. He is the God behind the burning bush, the God who parted the Red Sea. He is the alpha and omega, the first and the last. We are each the workmanship of His hands, and as such He knows us as individuals. I testify that He loves us each personally. I feel His love.

    I believe that He is the firstborn of the Father, and the Only Begotten Son in the flesh. I believe that He has existed since the beginning, and that He condescended to take upon Himself the flesh. While thus capable of death, Christ suffered for the sins of the world, taking upon Himself not only the pains of transgression but every manner of sorrow and affliction. To that priceless gift I am eternally indebted.

    I believe that that Jesus Christ was crucified and died, but rose again. I testify that He lives. I believe in the literal and bodily resurrection of Jesus, which means that He is a tangible being of flesh and bone. I believe that all men will rise again, and that death is not the end. I tremble to think of that divine blood shed for me. I tremble to know that for me He was crucified. I tremble to know that He lives today.

    Jesus Christ is our advocate with the Father. It is only upon His atoning blood that we can be saved. There is no other name or power by which we can be made whole and clean.

    Jesus Christ is my friend. He has sustained and carried me through painful times. He has cleansed me of sins that make me quake. I continue to depend on Him for that cleansing power. Oh how grateful I am for the Eternal Savior of the World, even the Redeemer Jesus Christ. I leave you with my testimony in His name, amen. (to read more about what I believe about Jesus Christ, click here to visit a previous post on the subject.)

  • What is a Mormon?

    A Mormon is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Mormons are also called Latter-day Saints (LDS). The word Mormon refers to The Book of Mormon, which is another Testament of Jesus Christ that is used by the Church as sacred scripture. The Book of Mormon was produced by a writer, historian, and prophet named Mormon around 400 A.D. In 1830 it was translated by Joseph Smith who published the book in New York where the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was founded.

    As of 2005 there were over 12 million world wide members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which in 2005 became the fourth largest Church in America and is perhaps the fastest growing religion in the world. Aside from the Book of Mormon, Latter-day Saints are known for their geneology programs and libraries, their dedication to the family and to family values, their beautiful churches and temples around the world, their humanitarian aid and disaster relief, their missionaries, and their faith in the Living God.

    Click here to learn more about the Book of Mormon.

  • About The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ

    The Book of Mormon is sacred scripture that testifies of Jesus Christ. The Book is made up of a series of records written by ancient prophets. These records were compiled by a man named Mormon in 420 AD in the ancient Americas, and ultimately were translated by Joseph Smith in 1830.

    The Book of Mormon was recently named one of the top 20 most influential books in America. Noted for its beautiful accounts of glorious visions, remarkable journeys, religious discourses, heroic adventures, action packed histories, and an inspirational account of Jesus Christ’s post-resurrection visit to the inhabitants of the ancient Americas, the Book of Mormon has inspired millions around the world. Perhaps most unique to the Book is a promise in its last chapter that provides a way for anyone to discover for themselves what is true. The introduction of the Book states:

    “We invite all men everywhere to read the Book of Mormon, to ponder in their hearts the message it contains, and then to ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ if the book is true. Those who pursue this course and ask in faith will gain a testimony of its truth and divinity by the power of the Holy Ghost. (See Moroni 10:3-5.)

    “Those who gain this divine witness from the Holy Spirit will also come to know by the same power that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world, that Joseph Smith is his revelator and prophet in these last days, and that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Lord’s kingdom once again established on the earth, preparatory to the second coming of the Messiah” (The Introduction of the Book of Mormon).

    I remember the first time I read the Book of Mormon cover to cover. I was a freshman in High School, anxious to discover for myself what was true and what was not. I’ll never forget the power I discovered in this Book. I remember distinctly kneeling next to my bed with my pillow clutched to my chest after I had finished the Book. After thinking long and hard about the Book I had just read, I prayed to my Father in Heaven, asking Him in the name of Christ if the Book of Mormon was true.

    The euphoria that swept over me then was the most amazing experience I had ever felt. Through the sweet, tender confirmation of the Holy Spirit, I knew for myself that the Book of Mormon was true, that Jesus was the Christ, and that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. Even now just remembering that night brings back just a small portion of that feeling. It is an excitement in my chest and a comfort in my heart.

    I testify that the Book of Mormon is the Word of God, as is the Bible. The Book of Mormon testifies of the divinity of the Bible and it confirms Biblical truth. I testify that Jesus is the Christ, the Savior and Redeemer of the world. He has suffered for our sins so that we might be saved through His atonement. I am so grateful for the Book of Mormon which taught me these things. I am so grateful for the whisper of the Spirit that confirmed the truth of these things. It is my prayer that you can experience the power that is in the Book of Mormon. Read it. Ponder it. Ask God about it, and find out for yourself.

    Click here to learn about some of the many questions answered in the Book of Mormon.

    Click here to receive a free copy of the Book of Mormon.

  • What do you believe about Joseph Smith?

    Joseph Smith is a prophet of God. I believe that he talked with God face to face like Moses, Elijah, and other prophets. I believe that Jesus Christ restored the fullness of His gospel through Joseph Smith.

    Joseph grew up during the Second Great Awakening, a time of religious revival when many Churches were contending with one another in New England. When Joseph Smith was fourteen years old he was confused by the many churches near his home in upstate New York. Wanting to know for himself who was right and who was wrong, Joseph decided to follow the advice of James who said, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God” (James 1:5).

    He knelt down in a grove of trees near his house and prayed to our Heavenly Father, asking him for truth. In that peaceful grove of trees on that beautiful spring morning, a pillar of light descended on Joseph Smith. As his eyes focused, he saw standing above him God the Father and the Son, Jesus Christ. They told him not to join any of the existing Churches and promised him more truth.

    A few years later, a resurrected man named Moroni shared with Joseph a record compiled by his father Mormon. The record was written on gold plates, which Joseph Smith translated by the power of God and published as the Book of Mormon. Like the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith testified of Jesus Christ. He once said, “And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!” (D&C 76:22). On April 6, 1830 Joseph Smith organized the Church of Jesus Christ in these latter-days.

    Joseph Smith was persecuted by militant neighbors who didn’t understand or appreciate the Book of Mormon or Joseph Smith’s vision. He and his followers were forced to move from New York to Ohio, Missouri, and ultimately Nauvoo, Illinois where Joseph was murdered by anti-mormons. Despite this opposition, the members of the early Church describe Joseph Smith as a kind, caring, meek, and inspiring man with a sense of humor.

    Joseph Smith was loved and revered by thousands of early Latter-day Saints. John Taylor, one of Joseph Smith’s associates, said, “Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it. . . He lived great, and he died great in the eyes of God and his people; and like most of the Lord’s anointed in ancient times, has sealed his mission and his works with his own blood” (D&C 135:3).

    I testify that Joseph Smith is a prophet of God. I learned this for myself by the power of the Holy Spirit while visiting the site of Joseph’s martyrdom. (Read more about that experience here.) I am so greatful for Joseph Smith and the things that were revealed from God through him. The Gospel of Jesus Christ that Joseph taught has blessed my life and brought me more joy than I know how to express.


    I highly recommend reading the Testimony of Joseph Smith written in his own words.

    Or visit josephsmith.net

  • Elder Embree’s Updates
    About this Site:

    DBE_BG1
    This site is currently maintained by my brother James while I am serving a mission for my Church.

    Dear Friends and Xangans,

    I started this weblog on March 29, 2003 after being introduced to xanga by Jennie. It was a place for me to ramble on and on about my life. As I finished my junior year of high school and became a senior, my interest in blogging increased and it became a major hobby.

    Xanga was a great way to keep in contact with my friends while I was away at college, and it also helped me meet people at BYU. I ran into several people there that I had first met on xanga, like my friend Alex who is currently serving a mission in Uruguay.

    I became a xanga premium member so that I could be more creative with the website layout and so that I could continue to update my site while on my mission. Because missionaries aren’t supposed to surf the internet, I knew that I wouldn’t be able to have access to xanga during my 2 year mission. I will be allowed to e-mail family (only) however. This site is updated by my brother James who uses e-mail posting to update my site for me based on the e-mails I send him.

    The new and improved DBE_BG1 xanga site, now dubbed “Elder Embree’s Updates” is a perfect way for me to stay in touch with my friends while on my mission. It is also a great way for me to share the Gospel that I am teaching while on my mission.

    I hope you will take the time to look around the site. With the exception of a few links to external sites (like www.mormon.org), the links, frequently asked questions, and other resources were written by me. I hope that if you will take the time to flip through these links you will have your questions answered, learn about what I am doing and why, and read my testimony of Jesus Christ and the restoration of His gospel.

    Sincerely,
    Elder Embree
    (dbe_bg1)

  • A Note on Comments:

    Dear Friends and fellow Xangans,

    Because I am currently serving a full time mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I will not have access to this xanga site. This site is updated via e-mail through xanga premium service. The site is maintained by my brother James.

    I will not be able to respond to comments left on any of the posts, nor will I read the comments left after August 16, 2005. My brother and father have agreed to e-mail me any comments that are particularly noteworthy, but comments on the post are not a reliable way to contact me. My brother will also be moderating comments and has the ability to delete any comments he deems inappropriate according to his discretion. Comments with flames, bigotry, hate, and prejudice are not welcome on this site.

    I can receive e-mails on my mission (click here to e-mail me), but I will not be able to respond to e-mails via e-mail. If you would like me to respond to your e-mails, then please provide a mailing address where I can send a hand written letter. The best way to contact me is to write to me at the following address:

    Elder Embree
    California Arcadia Mission
    170 W. Duarte Rd.
    Arcadia CA 91007

    Thank you for understanding the restrictions of full time missionary service. I appreciate your patience during these two years when it will be hard to contact me.

    Thanks again,
    Elder Embree

  • Contact Information:

    Dear Friends and fellow Xangans,

    The absolute best way to contact me after September 6, 2005 and get a reply is by mailing a letter to:

    Elder Daniel Embree
    California Arcadia Mission
    170 W. Duarte Rd.
    Arcadia CA 91007

    Between August 17, 2005 and September 6, 2005 I will be in the Missionary Training Center in Provo. You can reach me there by writing to:

    Elder Daniel Embree
    California Arcadia Mission
    Provo Missionary Training Center
    2005 N 900 E
    Provo UT 84604

    I will be serving a 2 year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints beginning August 17, 2005. During that time I will not be home to visit and I will not be accessing a computer for personal use. All contact with friends will be maintained through writing. I hope that I can stay in touch with all my friends this way, and I also look forward to receiving messages from people who have questions or comments about my xanga site.

    I will be able to receive e-mails on a a weekly basis, but I will not be able to respond to e-mails via e-mail, so please include a mailing address so that I can respond to your messages. (click here to e-mail me)

    Thank you for understanding the restrictions of full time missionary service. I appreciate your patience and I look forward to hearing from you soon! (Packages are also very welcome).

    Thanks again,
    Elder Embree