"This is the Greatest Country in all the World"

American exceptionalism is a true principle.

Herold B. Lee said it this way:

"Men may fail in this country, earthquakes may come, seas may heave beyond their bounds, there may be great drought, disaster, and hardship, but this nation, founded on principles laid down by men whom God raised up, will never fail. This is the cradle of humanity, where life on this earth began in the Garden of Eden. This is the place of the new Jerusalem. This is the place that the Lord said is favored above all other nations in all the world. This is the place where the Savior will come to His temple. This is the favored land in all the world. Yes, I repeat, men may fail, but this nation won’t fail. I have faith in America; you and I must have faith in America, if we understand the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We are living in a day when we must pay heed to these challenges.

"I plead with you not to preach pessimism. Preach that this is the greatest country in all the world. This is the favored land. This is the land of our forefathers. It is the nation that will stand despite whatever trials or crises it may yet have to pass through." (Ye Are the Light of the World, p. 350-351)

Right now, more than ever, we need to believe in America!

Things are Happening in Orem!

It's true you know--Things are HAPPENING in Orem!

I found this picture in a book that I recently checked out from the library. In fact, I checked out two books--both on the history of Orem. The books are titled:

• It Happened in Orem
• Sagebrush to Steel

I haven't made a dedicated study of these books yet. However, they sit on my desk, and I read portions that catch my eye and as time permits. I intend to renew the books before their deadline and learn what I can about Orem's unique legacy.

I learn something fascinating each time I open these books, and because of the things I learn, my city-pride and my respect for our predecessors continues to deepen.

The books contain an organized history of the previous 'Provo Bench' and portray a legacy of hard working, dedicated settlers who first came to the area. The books also explain the growth and development of Orem as a city, from it's humble beginnings until the about 1970.

Our special city has a rich history of selfless stalwarts who put the community above themselves and sacrificed the resources they had for the betterment of the community.

One book shows that the establishment of Orem is the fulfillment of Brigham Young's prophetic prophecy. Said he:

"Some day all of this sagebrush will disappear, water will be taken out of the Provo River in canals to water this [benchland], and this bench will become a beautiful garden spot; here many kinds of delicious fruit and vegetables will be grown, beautiful homes will be erected, and Provo and Pleasant Grove will become one solid city."

And then it came to pass...all of it!