December 22

Page Two

Young and old​—what does the future hold for you in 1983 and beyond? There are many things over which you have no control. However, what of personal relationships, health, financial security and personal safety? The following articles point out what you can do toward making your future a happy one

Your Future​—Is It Danger? 3

Your Future​—It Can Be Happy 6

Your Future​—Is It in Danger?

ALL of us have a stake in the future. Teenagers, hoping to live perhaps another 60 or 70 years, wonder what kind of life the future will offer them. Older persons want whatever time they have left to be as comfortable as possible. And most of them are concerned about what the future holds for their children and grandchildren.

Hence, young or old, we invite you to answer the following questions. And as you do, consider why you answer the way you do.

PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS: Today people feel free to experiment with such things as marriage and parenthood. They feel liberated from old-fashioned ideas. Has this greater “freedom” brought greater happiness?

HEALTH: Today man understands more about the causes and cures of sicknesses than he ever did. In view of this, how confident are you that cancer or some other disease will not cripple you or end your life prematurely?

FINANCIAL SECURITY: In many lands ordinary people are wealthier than at any previous time in history. Are you, then, satisfied with today’s economic situation? Are you confident that you will maintain your present living standard for the rest of your life?

PERSONAL SAFETY: Two hundred years ago most countries had no policemen, as we know them today. Now almost every country has a well-organized police force with modern equipment. Does this make you feel confident that your house will never be burgled, or you will never be mugged or otherwise victimized?

SECURITY: Today world leaders can speak with one another merely by lifting the telephone receiver. Additionally, nuclear weapons have made modern warfare unthinkable to any sane person. Does this make you confident that there will never be a third world war? Are you certain that civilization will still be here 50 years from now?

How did you answer these questions? If you answered them the way many others have, then they have reminded you of some basic weaknesses in human society. These weaknesses must be resolved before we can have any real confidence in the future. Now let us look at these questions again.

PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS​—And Your Future:

Happiness depends to a large extent on how you get on with other people. Even with perfect health and complete security, if you do not have warm personal relationships, you will be unhappy. And the closest and warmest relationships of all should exist in the family. Too often this is not the case.

A recent headline in Time magazine announced: “Illegitimacy soars as the stigma against it declines.” Also, many couples show an irresponsible attitude toward marriage. In Britain one in four marriages now ends in divorce, an increase of 400 percent in the past 20 years. The Roman Catholic Church forbids divorce. Yet Roman Catholics oftentimes break up their marriages by means of annulments. Through this loophole 338 marriages in the U.S.A. were “dissolved” in 1968. In 1980 the figure shot up to 32,000.

Another important personal relationship is respect for the aging. Respect for old people used to be automatic and caring for one’s aging parents a sacred duty. Often this is no longer true. Now many grown-up children no longer want to care for their parents. Worse, many elderly parents are physically abused by their children. “Domestic violence against the elderly is a burgeoning national scandal,” says U.S. politician Mario Biaggi.

The elderly, too, are easy game for young thugs. “‘Granny-bashing’ has now entered the catalogue of domestic crime,” reported London’s Daily Mail. Thus a headline in The Wall Street Journal proclaimed: “Many Elderly Women Fight Ill Health, Fear Of Crime, Loneliness.”

Do you not agree that such trends bode ill for your future, as well as for the future of all mankind?

HEALTH​—And Your Future:

In spite of medical advances no one can be sure what the future holds as far as his health is concerned. But there are things we can do to improve our prospects.

For example, according to the magazine World Health, “tobacco, especially cigarette smoking, accounts for about 30 percent of all cancer deaths in countries . . . where people have smoked substantial numbers of cigarettes for many decades.” Evidence also suggests a link between chewing tobacco or betel nut and cancer in the mouth.

Similarly, heavy drinking leads to cirrhosis of the liver and alcoholism, and it is implicated in many crimes, as well as in work and traffic accidents. Overeating produces overweight, with attendant heart and artery problems. Sexual immorality has produced a worldwide pandemic of venereal diseases, some of which are incurable. And the abuse of drugs (in addition to tobacco and alcohol) has produced a whole crop of problems. Would not avoiding these practices improve your prospects for a happy future?

Unfortunately, though, our health is not always in our own hands. Hundreds of millions are sick because of malnutrition. Pollution is also a health hazard.

But even if men were entirely wise in avoiding these health hazards, their future would still be a question mark. Not all serious diseases are caused by man’s misuse of himself and his environment. And, finally, death comes to all men. Will it always be like that?

FINANCIAL SECURITY​—And Your Future:

How can we ensure a reasonably prosperous future for ourselves and our family? Well, young people can study hard at school, equipping themselves for the future. Older ones can work diligently, practice thrift and build up a reputation for honesty and reliability. Some have insurance policies and pension plans. All of this can help. But, again, there are forces at work that can bring our plans to nothing.

Consider the food situation. The 1981 United Nations Fund for Population Activities reported that the food went to those who had the money to buy it. Those without money went hungry.

Then there is the problem of inflation. This can be a cruel destroyer of hopes. In Britain the purchasing power of the pound sterling is less than one fifth of what it was 17 years ago. Some nations have a regular yearly inflation rate of more than 100 percent.

Creeping unemployment adds to the difficulty. How can people plan for a happy future if they cannot find work?

Yes, because of an uncertain economic situation, many feel uncertain about the future. Do you?

PERSONAL SECURITY​—And Your Future:

What can we do to assure our personal security? To be honest, very little. If possible, we can avoid going into high-crime areas. We can install burglar alarms at home. We can try not to attract the attention of criminals.

Commenting on the crime situation, England’s Duke of Edinburgh said that the world today is like the Dark Ages. London’s Metropolitan Police Commissioner confessed: “One could be forgiven for sinking under a sense of helplessness.” And Britain’s Lord Chief Justice said: “There has been, in short, a breakdown in the moral fibre of the country which it is far beyond the power of the law to repair.” For example, an intruder broke into the British Queen’s bedroom, despite high security. Of course, England is not alone in this dilemma of crime.

And there is an even greater threat to your personal security​—namely, the possibility of war. Canadian journalist David Lancashire warned: “With the growing sophistication of the weapons has come an increasing chance of accidental war by computer error. In a recent eighteen-month period the U.S. missile warning system signaled false alarms 147 times.” Dr. Helen Caldicott called the nuclear arms situation “almost out of human control.”

This review shows that the future happiness of all of us is threatened by the nations’ insecurity. And there is very little we, as individuals, can do about it. However, do not despair! Beyond the immediate dangers that are threatening all mankind, there is something else. Read the following article and learn how your future can be a happy one.

[Pictures on page 3]

Personal relationships

[Pictures on page 4]

Your health

Financial security

[Picture on page 5]

Personal security

Your Future​—It Can Be Happy

FROM this brief discussion we have seen a few things that we can do to make our future a little more secure. But there are many things we just cannot do anything about. Some matters are out of the control of even the world’s rulers. They are certainly out of our personal control. We must look beyond mankind. How can we do that?

For thousands of years a book has existed that points to a superhuman solution for man’s problems. That book is the Bible, and it points us to our Creator as the One who can give us a secure future.

It may be that you do not believe in the Bible. Or perhaps you do accept it but do not feel that it is relevant to today’s problems. However, the fact is this: The Bible gives the most comprehensive and successful guide to living that has ever been recorded.

Consider once more those matters raised at the beginning of this discussion and see what the Bible says about them.

PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS:

With regard to caring for aging parents, it says: “If anyone does not provide for those who are his own, and especially for those who are members of his household, he has disowned the faith and is worse than a person without faith.”​—1 Timothy 5:8.

The Bible also teaches responsible parenthood and responsibility in marriage. “Let marriage be honorable among all, and the marriage bed be without defilement,” exhorts one Bible writer. (Hebrews 13:4) In another Bible book the same writer says: “Be in subjection to one another in fear of Christ. Let wives be in subjection to their husbands . . . Husbands, continue loving your wives . . . Children, be obedient to your parents . . . Fathers, do not be irritating your children, but go on bringing them up in the discipline and mental-regulating of Jehovah.”​—Ephesians 5:21, 22, 25; 6:1, 4.

You may feel that such counsel is excellent but idealistic. Really, though, it provides us high standards to aim for. And the truth is, millions of people today try hard to live according to such standards and their lives are happier because of it.

YOUR HEALTH:

Consider this advice: “Quit mixing in company with anyone . . . that is a fornicator or a greedy person . . . or a drunkard.” (1 Corinthians 5:11) Or this: “Let us cleanse ourselves of every defilement of flesh and spirit.” (2 Corinthians 7:1) Any who obey this advice avoid the venereal diseases and many of those other sicknesses that were mentioned previously.

For the sicknesses that we cannot avoid, the Bible mentions another remedy that we will refer to later.

FINANCIAL SECURITY:

There is also abundant advice to help us during these difficult economic times. Take just two examples of the Bible’s counsel: “If anyone does not want to work, neither let him eat.” Also: “Whatever you are doing [including secular work], work at it whole-souled as to Jehovah, and not to men.” (2 Thessalonians 3:10; Colossians 3:23) This advice helps us to make the most of whatever economic situation we find ourselves in.

In addition to this, Jesus once made a remarkable promise. Speaking of the problem of getting enough food and clothing, he said: “Keep on, then, seeking first the kingdom and [God’s] righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33) This is God’s promise to care for his servants. Does God keep his promise? Millions testify that he does.

PERSONAL SECURITY:

The Bible counsels us about how to conduct ourselves wisely in these dangerous times. But it is undeniable that most problems having to do with security, whether we are speaking of crime or we are speaking of the threat of war, should be solved more by governments than by individuals. In this regard the Bible also proposes a solution. It frankly says that man is unable to govern himself without help: “It does not belong to man who is walking even to direct his step.” (Jeremiah 10:23) And it encourages us to look to God’s Kingdom for successful government.

Another Kind of Government

As a matter of fact, people have been praying for a long time for God to take over the rulership of the earth. When they utter the familiar Lord’s Prayer, they say: “Let your kingdom come. Let your will take place, as in heaven, also upon earth.” (Matthew 6:9, 10) What is that, if not a prayer for God instead of man to rule the earth? The Bible even gives us a vision of the fulfillment of that prayer: “The kingdom of the world did become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will rule as king forever and ever.”​—Revelation 11:15.

Under that Kingdom many things that are only too familiar today will disappear: “Evildoers themselves will be cut off, but those hoping in Jehovah are the ones that will possess the earth.” (Psalm 37:9) “There will come to be plenty of grain on the earth; on the top of the mountains there will be an overflow.” (Psalm 72:16) “He is making wars to cease to the extremity of the earth.” (Psalm 46:9) No more warfare, crime or hunger under this rulership!

How about sickness and death? Listen to this promise: “[God] will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:4) This is the future as promised by the Bible. You may feel that it is just a dream. But consider: Since human rulers cannot solve the dangerous problems of this century, what future is there for mankind? If God’s Kingdom is not a reliable hope, what is the alternative?

In apostolic times Christians pointed everyone to God’s Kingdom as the only hope for a secure future, and today Jehovah’s Witnesses preach the same message to people of this generation. They try to apply in their day-to-day life the principles of the Bible, and they find that these work. When they face difficult problems they look to God for help and he gives it. They are familiar with many events happening today that, in the light of Bible prophecies, prove that God’s Kingdom is a reality. They view themselves as subjects of that Kingdom. And they know that it will do all the things that God says it will.

If the scriptures we have quoted describe the future as you would like to see it, why not talk to Jehovah’s Witnesses about it? Learn of the truly happy future that is offered to all men of goodwill. Find out how to be among those referred to in the Bible when it says: “Watch the blameless one and keep the upright one in sight, for the future of that man will be peaceful.”​—Psalm 37:37.

Frustrated​—Where Could I Turn?

As told to “Awake!” correspondent in Japan

EMOTIONALLY charged and with a lump in my throat I applauded excitedly! At what? I had just seen the movie Chonrima. It was a revolutionary movie that graphically showed the fight with and eventual victory of the Korean laborers over what was called the imperialistic Americans, and others, who treated them as if they were cows and horses. At last I had found something to devote my life to​—the cause of socialism with freedom, equality and peace as the goal. So did this end my frustration?

Growing Up Frustrated

Why did I have feelings of frustration? It started with my experiences while I was a boy. I was born in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, which is called the Switzerland of the East because of its beautiful natural environment. In spite of the delightful natural surroundings, my family life was rather sad and unfulfilled. My parents were both ill, and nearly all the money earned was spent on medical care. Just before I entered grade school my mother died of her illness.

In those days public opinion was that children without parents were prone to become delinquents. So whenever problems arose I was reminded that “children without parents are no good.” This coldness in the community made me angry and frustrated.

After I entered high school my father died. It was then that I felt the full force of this coldness toward orphans. Just because I was an orphan my application for a job at one company was rejected. Oh, how I longed for a life free of discrimination! I finally moved to Tokyo and worked in a printing shop.

One day a fellow worker asked me if I would like to go to a meeting of just young folks. I accepted, and was I surprised! All the young men and women welcomed me warmly and were very kind. The meeting was called Democratic Youth League, which was a subordinate organization of the Japan Communist Party, organized to recruit prospective members for the party.

All sang the “Songs of Labor” and enjoyed folk dances, after which they divided into small groups where heated discussions developed on themes such as “The Place of the Laborer in the Future” and “A Just and Peaceful State.”

One day a young person came up to me after a discussion and asked: “In order to establish a peaceful life, is it not first necessary to remove class distinctions between capitalism and labor?” This pulled at my heartstrings. Eagerly I asked him: “How do you think class distinctions can be removed?” He replied instantly: “Revolutions like those in Russia, China and Korea are necessary. But here in Japan an armed revolution is impossible, so an ideological revolution is the only answer.” It was at this time that I went to see the movie Chonrima, after which I made my decision!

I Joined the Communist Party

In 1960 I joined the Communist Party, convinced that the only way to escape from a frustrated life was through setting up a socialist state. I organized unions in several enterprises for workers who were suffering because of low wages and harsh working conditions. Also, I became active in political movements and their struggles. For instance, I joined groups that vigorously demonstrated at American military bases against a nuclear submarine entering Yokosuka. We also engaged in protest marches against the Japan-American Security Pact.

In July of 1963 I went back to Nagano Prefecture because of a health problem, but I kept active in the Communist Party. In April of 1966 I got married, but my wife had absolutely nothing to do with communism.

As I carried on various activities of the Communist Party, I became aware of some contradictions between what the party should really be and what it was. Commands from the party headquarters were to be obeyed without any reservations. Vigorous discussions were held, but the opinions exchanged were not acted upon by the organization, and in most cases constructive ideas were squashed. Our discussions about freedom and peace were merely words. Mere forced subjection again made me feel the coercion I had experienced in my childhood.

I began to wonder, ‘With the way things are now, could the socialist state I desired really be established?’ This question remained unanswered, and my complete trust in the party was replaced with misgivings. However, I could not place my hope in anything else. The old feeling of despair began to grow, and my activity cooled off. Once again I was overtaken by a feeling of frustration.

A Hope Presents Itself

On a really cold day in January 1969 something happened. As my wife and I were machine knitting in our house a young woman hardly 20 years old, one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, knocked on our door. My wife invited the visitor into the house to get warm. I never dreamed how profoundly this action of my wife was to affect my course in life. That young Jehovah’s Witness explained about God and God’s rule from Psalm 37, verses 10 and 11: “Just a little while longer, and the wicked one will be no more; . . . but the meek ones themselves will possess the earth, and they will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.”

The words, however, did not impress me. I was in agreement with Karl Marx’ opinion: “Religion is the opium of the people.” Therefore I had no interest in anything connected with God. My wife, however, showed interest and desired to have this person call again. Actually I felt, ‘How pitiful that this young person is sacrificing her life for a belief in a nonexistent God!’ I thought I should help her to abandon her foolish thinking. Therefore, with this altogether different motive, I agreed with my wife to have this young woman call again.

On her return visit the booklet “Look! I Am Making All Things New” was used, and an intense discussion was started on What is true peace? and Why is it impossible for man to set up a peaceful country? Other return visits by the young lady followed. One time the Witness explained about man’s imperfection, saying: “Because man is imperfect he cannot by himself rule in justice and peace.” She cited Jeremiah 10:23. I can recall the anger I felt as I strongly criticized her: “So any difficult problem you attribute to imperfection​—how cowardly!” Yet I could not show any case where someone had been perfect.

As the study progressed the Witness always used the Bible to answer our questions. She also used charts and drawings to kindly explain things. In my head I could understand what she said and what was written in the publications. In my heart I was rejecting it because I continued to stumble over the word “God.” Apart from things related to God I could reasonably agree with what was written in the Bible, so I continued the discussions.

I Quit the Party

In the Communist Party I saw only an idealistic theory being developed, saying: “Mankind should be like this,” or, “Peace should be like that,” but I could not see any concrete or realistic approach to accomplish it.

I further became disillusioned with the Communist Party as it seemed only to parrot the Marx-Lenin doctrine and a way of life that only dreams of a socialistic state. So I turned in my notice of resignation from the party.

Immediately three members of the party headquarters came for all-night “recapitulation” sessions. No physical abuse was inflicted, but after three nights they severely castigated me for being an opportunist. Quitting the party caused mental anguish, but the officials recognized my strong determination to withdraw and gave up trying to persuade me to do otherwise. Although I was able to separate from the Communist Party in 1969, the socialistic ideology continued to control my thinking. So during the Bible studies questions kept haunting me: “Isn’t this, too, just a dream? Doesn’t the existence of God depend on whether you want to believe it or not?”

These questions were obstacles to my understanding whether God really exists or not. As I studied the “Look!” booklet and the book The Truth That Leads to Eternal Lifea I could not help but think that it is unreasonable to object to these teachings.

Then one time as I was reading the Bible my eyes stopped at a verse that reads: “The sun also has flashed forth, and the sun has set, and it is coming panting to its place where it is going to flash forth. The wind is . . . continually circling, and right back to its circlings the wind is returning. All the winter torrents are going forth to the sea, yet the sea itself is not full.” (Ecclesiastes 1:5-7) As I meditated on these words I humbly acknowledged that the Bible is not merely a religious book but a scientific one too! This convinced me that the Bible is true, and that peace will be accomplished in the way the Bible says.

In time I read another book, Did Man Get Here by Evolution or by Creation?,b and in doing so I got another surprise. I learned that when considering the human body and its structural minuteness and the mysterious aspects of birth, it is pure ignorance to say that this happened by chance or accident. Especially in Chapter 7 of that book, “Heredity Keeps Family Kinds Separate,” I learned about the scientific substance DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and realized that a creative power was needed. This I could tie in with God, and now what had been vague was really very near and real, as I could now believe in the existence of God! (Romans 1:20; Hebrews 3:4) I realized that the only true hope for peace was not with communism or socialism but was from God through his Kingdom.

Now a different kind of problem presented itself. My work took me into the mountains to be a caretaker of a lodge. This was some one and a half hours from my previous home. I felt it would be too much to ask the conductor of the home Bible study to come this distance and so suggested to my wife that we quit.

I Became a Christian

However, a traveling overseer visiting the congregation suggested that the congregation try to extend a helping hand. So a brother with a car arranged to drive the conductor to our place every week, and we continued to study. This kindness helped us to realize just how important the things we were studying really were. At meetings, which we attended, not only were we welcomed but we could see a demonstration of how peaceful relations can be maintained.​—Matthew 5:9.

Now we had a keen desire to show our appreciation for all that Jehovah had done for us and will do for us in the future. We wanted to be baptized as soon as possible to symbolize our dedication to Jehovah God. Our baptism took place on May 27, 1970.

My change from being a member of the Communist Party to a Christian witness of Jehovah has been a shock to many of my former associates. To me, too, the change has been nothing short of miraculous. Looking back, I was forced as a child to grow up without experiencing family love. Now I have a very large Christian family that loves me very dearly. (Matthew 12:48-50) At one time I had bitter, unfulfilled days marked by prejudice. Now I have found true peace and a spiritually satisfying life, replete with much joy. I have been able to search for, to find and to become convinced of a trustworthy hope that transcends man’s powers and his limitations to provide. I have tasted happiness and overflowing joy. Yes, by turning to Jehovah God, I have left frustration behind.

[Footnotes]

[Blurb on page 10]

I began to wonder, ‘Could the socialist state I desired really be established?’

[Blurb on page 11]

I was in agreement with Karl Marx’ opinion: “Religion is the opium of the people”

[Blurb on page 12]

As I meditated on these words I humbly acknowledged that the Bible is not merely a religious book but a scientific one too!

Young People Ask . . .

Does It Really Matter What I Wear?

“IT’S not too short,” Peggy cried to her parents. “You’re just being old-fashioned!” Off she ran to her room​—the grand finale to a quarrel over a skirt she wanted to wear.

Perhaps you have been the center of such a controversy. A parent, a teacher or an employer may have criticized an outfit that you loved. You called it casual; they called it sloppy. You called it chic; they called it gaudy and suggestive.

“That’s unfair,” you say. “I’m entitled to my opinion.” And indeed you are. Why, throughout the world, attitudes toward dress vary greatly. Even your peers may clash when it comes to clothes. The hippie-style youth of the 1960’s may no longer be typical of young people in your area. A U.S. newspaper reports that “after decades of pushing for more lenient standards of dress and personal grooming, students are toning down what they wear and . . . growing more conservative.”

A group of youths confirmed that while some still “come to school with ripped-up clothing,” many come neatly dressed. In some areas it is in vogue to come all dressed up. “You can come to school looking any way you want,” said one youth, “and it’s accepted.”

So does it really matter how you dress? Are parents being unreasonable when they object to certain styles? These are valid questions. First, however, let’s explore youthful attitudes toward clothing.

A Means of Self-Expression

“What you wear,” says 12-year-old Pam, “is really who you are and how you feel about yourself.” Yes, clothing sends out a message, a statement to others about you. Clothing can whisper conscientiousness, stability, high moral standards. Or it can shout rebellion and discontent. It can mark you as trustworthy or, without your realizing it, brand you as worthless.

In Bible times, clothing identified different types of people. Solomon, for example, looked out the window one day and immediately recognized a woman as a prostitute! He recognized her clothing as “the garment of a prostitute.” (Proverbs 7:6-10) No self-respecting woman dressed that way.

Similarly, the Bible shows that when people were sad they appropriately wore “garments of mourning.” (2 Samuel 14:2) Prominence-seeking religious leaders were easily recognized by their distinctive long robes. And Jesus condemned them for calling attention to themselves in this way.​—Luke 20:46.

Also, today you will often be judged (fair or unfair, right or wrong) on the basis of how you dress and groom yourself. Your parents may, therefore, rightly object to your wearing certain styles; to them it is more than an issue of personal taste. They want you to send out the right “message”​—one that truly reflects your personality. So you may disagree with your parents over style. Nevertheless, you may be very anxious about your dress. Have you ever wondered why?

Probably it is because the teen years can be a time of such emotional turmoil. In so short a time your physical appearance changes from that of child to budding adult. Though people may treat you a little differently, you may still have some of the “traits of a babe” to wrestle with. (1 Corinthians 13:11) At times you nearly explode with new feelings, urges and desires. Through trial and error you try to discover just who you are. Restless, impatient, eager to explore, you try hard to juggle these new emotions. “Relax,” your parents say, “these are the normal agonies of growing up.”

Still, you may feel uncomfortable as a semiadult. While some youths enjoy their new adult form, others feel awkward and unattractive. Either way it’s easy to become self-conscious, obsessed with your personal appearance.

This is part of the reason why clothing is so important to many youths. Clothing is their symbol of independence and individuality. The only problem is that, as a youth, your personality is still in a state of flux, still developing, still changing. You want to make a statement concerning your individuality, but you may not be too sure either what that statement should say or how to say it.

“I Do Whatever My Friends Want to Do”

No wonder some youths cling to their peers for support. Dressing like and talking like their friends seem to give some of them a sense of identity. Of course, it is not necessarily wrong to want to blend in with people. The apostle Paul said: “I have become all things to people of all sorts.” (1 Corinthians 9:22) He was adaptable. But is it wise to seek peer approval at any cost?

One young girl confessed: “I do whatever my friends want to do just so they won’t say something.” What do you call someone who is at the beck and call of someone else, who gives in to someone else’s whim and fancy? The Bible answers: “Do you not know that if you keep presenting yourselves to anyone . . . to obey him, you are slaves of him because you obey him?”​—Romans 6:16.

The authors of Adolescence: Transition From Childhood to Maturity studied the results of research done among young people. They concluded that among young people “the emphasis on compliance can become so strong that group members almost seem to be prisoners of group norms, depending on them [their peers] for advice on how to dress, how to talk, what to do, and even what to think and believe.” While this may not be true of you, you probably know youths who really have become “slaves” to their peers.

But when you think of it, are not your friends suffering the same emotional growing pains that you are? Are they really qualified to ‘guide’ you? (See Matthew 15:14.) Is it wise meekly to follow standards set by others, even when they go against your own common sense, values and the wishes of your parents?

The Best Kind of “Clothes”

You may, however, resent the implication that you dress merely to please your friends. Sharon, a teenage youth, asserts: “These days young people dress for themselves. They want to be individuals.” That may be true in your case.

Nevertheless, some, in their quest for individuality, feel compelled to create an “image” by means of their clothing. They may pride themselves on creating novel ways of self-expression, even at the cost of embarrassing their parents.

The Bible, however, suggests self-expression by means of a different kind of “clothing.” “Clothe yourselves with the tender affections of compassion, kindness, lowliness of mind, mildness, and long-suffering.” (Colossians 3:12) Fashionable dress may dazzle your friends, even cause them to admire your individuality. But clothes do not win hearts​—or good friends. What does?

Jesus, who had many loyal friends, said invitingly: “Come to me, all you who are toiling and loaded down, . . . for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart.” (Matthew 11:28, 29) Christ wore the best kind of “clothing,” qualities such as compassion and kindness that made him irresistibly attractive to many. So can you! By working primarily on the person you are inside you not only express your individuality but also make loyal friends.

You can start with a thorough study and application of the principles of the Bible. In this way you build up the “inner man”; you gain depth and self-confidence. (2 Corinthians 4:16, The Jerusalem Bible) Your sojourn through youth will be far less rocky as a result. By following the Bible’s guidelines, you’ll also be far better equipped to decide how best to clothe the person you are outside. Jehovah’s Witnesses are pleased to help you begin such an examination of God’s Word.

Still, you may wonder, what are the Bible’s standards for dress and grooming? Is it safe to follow the styles of today? And how can clothing reflect this spiritual “inner man” you want to develop? These are questions we will consider in a future issue.

[Blurb on page 14]

“These days young people dress for themselves,” says one teenage youth. “They want to be individuals”

[Picture on page 13]

Clothing sends out a message about you!

[Picture on page 15]

Concentrate your efforts on developing the person you are inside

Fly to Lyons On Wheels!

By “Awake!” correspondent in France

“BILLETS, s’il vous plaît!” Clad in a navy-blue uniform and wearing a smart cap, the ticket inspector asks to see your ticket. His presence reminds you that you are not on a plane but on France’ Train à Grande Vitesse, or TGV (High-Speed Train), the world’s fastest. Once you are well outside Paris you will cruise along at 260 kilometers (160 mi) an hour on the way to Lyons, France’ third largest city and the main stop on the line to the Alps and Italy or Marseilles and the Riviera.

But in these days of supersonic flight and space shuttles, what is the advantage of developing a revolutionary new form of railroad transport? Why did the French National Railways decide to embark on this new venture?

A New Trunk Line

The Paris-Lyons rail link has always been one of France’ busiest. Even though four-tracked over a third of the distance and double-tracked the rest of the way, it was no longer adequate to deal with peak traffic periods. Having considered progress abroad​—especially Japan’s successful “bullet” train on the Tokaïdo line—​an entirely new track was decided upon.

From the start it was decided that the new line from Paris to Lyons would be exclusively for passenger traffic, with appropriate rolling stock designed for high-speed performances. The most surprising thing about this new line is the total absence of tunnels. But you may ask, How do the trains get across the hills?

This brings us to a most important feature of the TGV​—it’s a featherweight, much lighter than a regular train. Each group of eight cars has very powerful electric engines, enabling the train to take much steeper grades than a heavy freight train or even a regular passenger train could do. Gradients reach 3.5 percent, whereas they do not exceed 1 percent on ordinary tracks. This is especially noticeable when the train plunges down a slope. Why, you feel as if you were on a plane about to land rather than on a train.a Due to its high speed the train for the most part is carried uphill by its own momentum. As you can also imagine, a track without tunnels is much cheaper to build.

The Train and the Track

This orange-and-charcoal-colored train, with its long sleek nose, is low-slung in comparison with standard models. This is because the bogies are situated between the cars, not under each end. Thus no passengers are seated above the wheels, which makes for a quieter and more comfortable journey. Moreover, it is easier to get in and out of the train.

Other factors concerning the actual track also contribute to a comfortable ride. Rails are welded into very long sections and sit on thick rubber cushions in the clips that are anchored to the cross-ties, or sleepers. Furthermore, the ballast is considerably deeper than usual.

Don’t Forget to Reserve Your Seat!

For security reasons no standing is allowed on the TGV, so reserving your seat is a must. The ticket reservation system was already computerized several years ago in France and now is slightly modified for the new train. Of course, you can still reserve your seat at a station or a travel agency, but for the TGV it is also possible to do so at the entrance to the platform.

You can even “talk” with automatic distributors that inform you if there is an available seat on the train you wish to take, if a peak-traffic supplement is due and (if the train is full) the time of the next TGV. Seats may be reserved up until five minutes before departure time. However, with this last-minute booking there is no way of choosing a preferred no-smoking car.

All Aboard!

Sit down and make yourself comfortable. Judging by the blue or green upholstery we are in a second-class car, for in first class the seats are either orange or brown. The individual lighting, separate seats and central aisle make you think you are aboard a plane, and the illusion would be perfect were it not for the countryside flashing past at 260 kilometers an hour.

Are you hungry? Depending on what time you travel, in first class hot meals may be ordered from stewards and hostesses. Remember, you are on your way to Lyons, a Mecca of French gastronomy! Second-class passengers may go to a snack bar situated in the middle of each group of eight cars.

Security

Computers are used not only to reserve seats; the one at the Gare de Lyons, the terminal where you board the TGV in Paris, has the general oversight and management of the network. In the normal traffic periods, the PAR (Poste d’Aiguillage et de Régulation, Switching and Control System) regulates the spacing of trains and transmits instructions to the engineer, either by automatic remote-controlled transmission or, if necessary, by telephone and radio. At such high speeds it would be very difficult for the engineer to read signals placed along the track and respond to them.

You will see no grade crossings on this railroad. Also, every time a highway crosses overhead there is a wire-netting safety device that can detect any heavy object that may fall on the line. An alarm would sound and halt all approaching trains. The entire line is also protected by wire fencing along each side.

Air or Rail?

Traveling on the TGV is no more expensive than on the regular trains and it has many advantages. For example, its prices are highly competitive with short-distance air travel. Also, when the entire track is completed in 1983, passengers will be able to travel from the heart of Paris to the heart of Lyons (426 kilometers, or 265 miles) in just two hours. At present the trip is often longer by air, taking into account time needed to get to and from the airports.

Since the line is built on the same gauge as the overall European network, you are not obliged to limit your journey to Lyons but may go on to Geneva and, in the near future, Lausanne (both in Switzerland), Grenoble and even Nice, on the Riviera. For these destinations the TGV leaves Paris on the new line and later diverts onto an old one. It has to slow down, of course, but it still cuts down on the travel time between Paris and these other cities.

High-Speed Trains in Other Countries

According to research carried on in this field all over the world, it seems that rail transportation is far from being on the way out. The energy crisis has given the railways a new lease on life, for their fuel efficiency is higher than any other type of land transport. Germany is improving its mainline network, with some trains already traveling at 200 kilometers (125 mi) an hour. Italy, also, has a fast new line called the Direttissima, linking Rome and Florence.

In Great Britain the problem has been approached from a different angle, with the APT (Advanced Passenger Train) designed to run on existing standard tracks. British researchers have come up with a tilting train that inclines like a motorcycle on the curves, thus increasing maximum speed by 20 to 40 percent over the fastest trains now using these tracks.

The Japanese are by no means behind, for they plan to enlarge their network of Shinkansen high-speed trains, which already travel at 210 kilometers (130 mi) an hour. Having met up with climatic problems in the colder regions, they have even conceived a system for spraying the rails with hot water in order to maintain regular services.

But for the present, it is France that holds the blue ribbon for the fastest passenger train service. So if you come to France one day and wish to go down south, either on business or for pleasure, please do not forget that you can fly to Lyons​—on wheels!

[Footnotes]

[Map/​Picture on page 16, 17]

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PARIS

DIJON

LYONS

A Fascinating Relationship

There is a butterfly that has a fascinating relationship with red ants. How does it come about?

In the early summer the female of the European large blue butterfly (Maculinea arion) lays her eggs on wild thyme blossoms. Through the course of two skin changes, the hatched caterpillar feeds chiefly on these blossoms. Thereafter it drops to the ground to begin a search for something different.

When found by a red ant, the two creatures act as if they knew each other. With her antennae and legs the ant begins to stroke the caterpillar. As a result, a drop of honeydew is secreted from a pore in the caterpillar’s tenth segment. The ant eagerly sucks it up, and eventually other ants begin to share in the feast.

When the segments of the caterpillar’s thorax swell up, the original ant takes this as the signal to transport her new acquaintance to the ant nest. In her jaws she holds the caterpillar just behind the enlarged segments. Then, for quite a while the caterpillar’s home is a chamber occupied by young ant grubs, and these are its new food. In turn, the ants get the desirable honeydew.

The caterpillar’s pupal stage begins in the spring of the following year, and three weeks later an adult butterfly with limp, crumpled wings starts crawling through the passages of the ant nest. No ant interferes. Outside, in the light of the sun, the process of making the butterfly’s wings firm for flight is completed.

The extraordinary relationship between ants and this particular variety of butterfly raises hard questions for those who accept the theory of evolution. How could an ant have come to know about the pore on the caterpillar’s tenth segment, and what would cause it to secrete honeydew? How could the caterpillar learn what would be needed to prepare itself to be carried off by an ant? Why would the ants permit the adult butterfly to crawl out of their nest freely? Such questions can be answered when one accepts as truth the words: “God proceeded to create . . . every winged flying creature . . . and every moving animal of the ground according to its kind.” (Genesis 1:20-25) Yes, not blind chance, but purposeful design is involved.

Cousins With Contrary Characters

By “Awake!” correspondent in South Africa

ALTHOUGH a hardened big-game hunter, Michael Mason found it difficult to aim his rifle at a Nubian wild ass. Why? “To any person who has only seen tame donkeys,” he wrote, “the sight of a wild ass in movement across its native ground is a revelation. They are the poetry of motion! The ease and grace and swiftness with which they crossed or climbed or descended those terribly rough naked rocks, where we saw them, . . . would have made a thoroughbred horse look like some rheumatic old screw. On the level plains . . . they are so swift and tireless that no mounted horse or racing camel can ever catch them.”

It is feared that this beautiful specimen has become extinct in the wild, not being able to withstand man’s modern weapons. There are other varieties of wild asses, but they are also endangered. The Syrian wild ass of Bible times was last seen in 1929, at Schönbrunn zoo, Vienna.

The situation is a lot better for the domestic ass. As a beast of burden, it continues to play an important role, especially in lands where life has not reached a hectic pace. An estimated forty million donkeys and ten million mulesa are still used in different parts of the world for agricultural and transportation needs.

Perhaps you are wondering, Who domesticated the donkey? And how does it compare with its cousin, the wild ass?

Did Man Domesticate the Donkey?

Zoologists say that man domesticated the donkey from the African variety of wild ass. What evidence is there in support of this claim?

“Almost everything connected with the ancestry of the donkey is guesswork,” admits The International Wildlife Encyclopedia. Although African wild asses​—Nubian and Somali—​look more like the domestic animal than the Asiatic kinds, there are definite differences. “It seems to be generally agreed that the Somali wild ass has had little or no effect on the domestic ass,” states an authority on the subject, Dr. Colin Groves. Regarding the Nubian wild ass, viewed as the most important ancestor, he says: “There are many differences: the shoulder-cross, even in the Nubian race, is not the boldly marked, long stripe of the donkey, and the backs of the ears are pale off-white rather than cinnamon. It is much larger, of course, and there are still differences in the skull. . . . I am very dubious whether the Nubian wild ass can really be the ancestor of the donkey.”

Is there no reliable authority, then, that can explain the characteristic differences? What about the Bible? It explains why these cousins have contrary characteristics in these words: “God proceeded to make the wild beast of the earth according to its kind and the domestic animal according to its kind.” Yes, Jehovah God, the Creator, is to be credited with the making of domestic animals, including the donkey. He lovingly did this for man’s benefit.​—Genesis 1:25.

Characteristics of Wild Asses

The most significant difference between wild and domestic asses lies in their character. Children love to stroke or ride donkeys. Could they do so with wild asses? In his book Animals of Africa, Dr. Felix wrote: “Wild asses are extremely wary and shy, and it is difficult to get close to them. At the slightest hint of danger, they rush away in all directions, adroitly climbing up and down the steep rocky slopes.”

Those that have been caught and cared for by man do not lose their wild nature. This is how the director of the Vienna zoo described the now extinct animal mentioned earlier: “Fiery and always ready to attack . . . with its teeth and hooves . . . the Syrian wild ass is a picture of unfettered wildness.”

This harmonizes with the Creator’s description of the wild ass as recorded in the Bible: “Who loosened the very bands of the wild ass, whose house I have appointed the desert plain and whose dwelling places the salt country? It laughs at the turmoil of a town; the noises of a stalker it does not hear. It explores mountains for its pasturage and after every sort of green plant it seeks.”​—Job 39:5-8.

Does this fit present-day habitats of wild asses? The book Wild, Wild World of Animals says: “African wild asses live in desolate, stony regions where temperatures may rise to 122°F [50°C].” The great Salt Plain in the Danakil depression of northern Ethiopia is an inhospitable desert where few humans can be found. Here, the magnificent Somali wild ass thrives, salt being a welcome part of its diet. The largest of wild asses, the kiang, dwells in the mountains of Tibet at an altitude of 4,500 meters (15,000 ft). In spite of freezing winters and heavy snows, it survives in these mountains seeking “after every sort of green plant.” On this, the book Horses, Asses and Zebras in the Wild comments: “Kiangs feed on grass and low-growing plants, particularly the tough, sharp swamp grass, rich in silicic acid, which would cut and lacerate the more sensitive mouths of any other equid.”

Can wild asses be tempted away from these regions by man? “They keep well away from human habitation even when suffering from thirst,” states The International Wildlife Encyclopedia. All of this is quite contrary to the character of domestic donkeys.

Mr. Long Ears​—Man’s Willing Slave

Slow by nature, he willingly carries heavy loads for men. After a hard day’s work he is satisfied with a little dry grass and some clean water. Because of his patient endurance, some despise him​—hence, the derogatory expression “you stupid ass.” But is the donkey stupid? “No,” authorities claim. “The donkey’s occasional obstinacy in refusing work too heavy for it has become proverbial, but its equally proverbial stupidity has probably become legendary through its reaction to brutal treatment and neglect. It is naturally patient and persevering, responding to gentle treatment with affection and attachment to its master.”​—Encyclopædia Britannica.

Actually, donkeys are considered more intelligent than horses. To some extent they are a reflection of their masters, responding to kindly training. (Proverbs 12:10) An experienced breeder, Averil Swinfen, wrote: “The donkey’s accomplishments are mostly what its master chooses to teach it . . . Its range of perception is acute and its enurement [becoming accustomed] to man is easily established. The behavioural chain in the animal will, therefore, reflect to a great extent that of its human owner or instructor.”

The donkey’s excellent memory is proof of its intelligence. After traveling a route for the first time, he will not forget it. Letting go of the reins, some owners take a nap in the cart as their donkey pulls them home. One man recalls how his donkeys would pull him to school while he sat in the cart doing homework.

The strength of the donkey varies according to breed. Some authorities say that donkeys carry an average load of 75 kilograms (165 lb) and can pull up to two and a half tons. Unlike the horse, it has an elliptical shape that is ideal for bearing burdens.

This weight-carrying ability, together with its surefootedness, makes the donkey invaluable in mountainous country. Donkeys are prized possessions in the mountain kingdom of Lesotho, southern Africa. With few roads, people in these mountains depend on their donkeys to carry loads from fields and shops. This brings to mind the wealthy man Job who apparently lived near mountainous Edom. He surely appreciated the services of his thousand she-asses.​—Job 42:12.

With advances in technology the donkey has become obsolete in many parts of the world. What future, then, is there for Mr. Long Ears, man’s willing slave?

We can be sure that man’s loving Maker will take timely measures to save not only asses but His entire earthly creation from extinction. He has promised that this earth will be transformed into a global Paradise. Contributing to the beauty, wild and domestic animals will be able to fulfill their roles according to their God-given characters. What delight this will bring to obedient mankind!​—Genesis 1:28; Hosea 2:18; Revelation 11:17, 18; 21:3-5.

[Footnotes]

[Diagram/​Picture on page 21]

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The horse is handsomely built, but the donkey is better designed for bearing heavy burdens

DONKEY

THORACIC CAVITY

SPINAL PROCESS

BACK MUSCLE

VERTEBRA

RIB

THORACIC CAVITY

HORSE

[Picture]

DONKEY

HORSE

[Picture on page 22]

Because of their surefootedness and their ability to carry burdens donkeys are prized possessions in the mountains of Lesotho

The Docile Donkey​—Not Always!

Slowly winding their way up a mountain trail, 50 donkeys were attacked by vicious sheep dogs. Ignoring the dogs, they continued unafraid with heavy loads on their backs. The scene changed when one of the dogs tried to bite the lead donkey on its hind leg.

“The second that the dog hit his legs,” wrote Frank Hibben in Nature Magazine, “the burro turned with lightning-like rapidity, despite the heavy pack, and kicked a slender hoof into the face of the snarling dog. At the same moment he opened his cavernous mouth and brayed with all the power of his lungs. . . . I had never heard a burro bray like that before.” One by one all 50 followed suit​—it was a startling war cry.

As the dogs renewed their attack, donkeys from the rear broke into a run surrounding two of the dogs. Trapped in a circle of donkey fury “one dog thought he saw an opening . . . and ran for it with his tail between his legs. The nearest burro quickly lowered his head. His teeth closed fairly over the dog’s back.” In this manner both dogs were caught and tossed outside the circle​—dead. The other dogs fled. “Three or four burros swelled out their nostrils and brayed loudly, as though the job were finished. Then all resumed their sleepy and plodding appearance and fell back into line. They were again ‘just burros.’”

The Latter-Day Saints in Today’s World

“If Mormonism continues to grow in the United States at its present rate,” a Mormon statistician figured recently, “and if the U.S. population continues to grow at its present rate, then in another 150 years when Mormonism celebrates its tricentennial, all the nation’s citizens will be Mormons.”

Although that statement was not meant to be taken too seriously, it, nonetheless, embraced all the earmarks of the Mormon movement​—optimism, aggressiveness, prosperity and growth.

Modern Trends

When the Mormon Church was formally established by Joseph Smith, Jr., on April 6, 1830, in upper New York State, there were but six members. Today, the Mormon Church of Utah, officially called the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and by far the largest among several Mormon groups, boasts 4.7 million members in 75 countries.

To many people Mormonism probably means pairs of clean-cut, serious-looking young men going from door to door seeking converts. Indeed, the 30,000 Mormon missionaries, mostly 19- or 20-year-old males serving their two-year stints in the U.S. and around the world, are said to be baptizing 200,000 new converts each year. Thus, the Mormon Church of Utah claims to be one of the fastest growing religions today.

The Appeals

In an article on Mormon missionary work, Newsweek magazine observes that to the new converts “Mormonism promises a network of solicitous friends, a doctrine of the eternal family and a living prophet to bring certainty to their lives.” Surely, in today’s rapidly changing society, family and friends, opportunity to better oneself and religious certainty are all very attractive and desirable. In this regard Mormonism appears to have much to offer.

Every Mormon ward, the equivalent of a parish or diocese, regularly sponsors ball games, picnics, parties, dances and other activities to which all age-groups are welcome. Families are encouraged to spend Monday nights​—Family Home Evenings—​together in study, recreation and other family projects. The church also operates a welfare system of its own to help fellow Mormons who may have fallen into hard times. Such programs, along with an impressive roster of celebrities such as former Governor George Romney, the Osmond singers, columnist Jack Anderson and others in their ranks, not only offer a strong appeal to the prospective converts but also make those already in the church who may be disgruntled think twice before quitting the church.

“All Is Not Well in Zion”

Impressive growth, material prosperity, loving families, moral purity, social status and respectability may all add up to an attractive and idealized picture of Mormonism. But “bishops and other church officials who spend much of their time in counseling are acutely aware that ‘all is not well in Zion,’” wrote Mormon Church historian Leonard Arrington.

In Utah, for example, where the Mormon Church claims 70 percent membership, government records show that the divorce rate is higher than the national average, and 7 out of 10 teenage mothers conceived their first baby out of wedlock. All the religious and social programs of the church have brought little, if any, real advantage to its members. On the contrary, the demands in time, effort and finances that such programs place upon its members only add to their frustration, disappointment and depression. As a result, the suicide rate of both adults and teenagers in Utah is also above the national average, and consumption of tranquilizers and pep pills, among other drugs, by Mormons far exceeds that by the population at large.

Another cause for concern among church leaders is the rising tide of inactive members in recent years. According to Arrington, “20 to 30 percent of those in the middle-of-the-road American wards do not attend [church services] at all,” and in congregations away from the center, “the disaffected nonattenders may constitute as much as 50 percent.” These are, nonetheless, included in the count of millions reported by the church.

Theology Behind It

It may seem strange that the areas in which Mormonism holds the strongest appeal​—family, youth, strong church programs and the like—​should be where it is experiencing the most pressing problems. In reality this paradox is the product of Mormonism’s unique and bizarre concept of the nature of God and man.

“God Himself,” Joseph Smith explained, “was once as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sits enthroned in yonder heavens.” To the Mormons, God is a glorified, perfected man. He has a body of flesh and bone, but not of blood, in which dwells an eternal spirit.

“All men and women are . . . literally the sons and daughters of Deity,” wrote Joseph F. Smith, nephew of Joseph, Jr., and president of the church from 1901 to 1918. “Man, as a spirit, was begotten and born of heavenly parents, and reared to maturity in the eternal mansions of the Father, prior to coming upon the earth in a temporal body.”

Thus, according to Mormon theology, all humankind existed as spirit beings in heaven before coming to earth. The purpose of their coming to earth is so that they can be tested and, if successful, be exalted, that they may eventually become gods themselves with worlds of their own. So Mormons believe in the existence of not one but many gods, each of whom rules over a world of his own. Brigham Young, second president of the church, once said: “How many Gods there are, I do not know. But there never was a time when there were not Gods and worlds, and when men were not passing through the same ordeals that we are passing through.”

These beliefs explain why so much emphasis is placed on marriage and the family. It is viewed as a duty for faithful Mormons to marry and to have as many children as they can care for so that they can provide physical bodies for other spirits to come to earth. Their marriage and family must be sealed in the temple “for time and eternity” so that they can become heavenly parents and bring forth spirit children. Plural marriage, or polygamy, which church members openly practiced at one time, is clearly tied in with this concept.

It also becomes clear why Mormons are characteristically hardworking and achievement-conscious, whether it be in education, politics or business. It is all a part of the process of eternal progression toward the celestial kingdom.

Basis for Belief

Obviously, to support such a theology, much more than the Bible is needed. Thus the eighth of the Mormon Articles of Faith declares: “We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly.” On the other hand, the Book of Mormon is said by Joseph Smith to be “the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book.” Yet the Book of Mormon itself is a translation. Joseph Smith claimed to have translated it from “Reformed Egyptian” inscriptions on golden plates (long since disappeared), delivered to him by the angel Moroni, by using “the Urim and Thummin,” a special pair of spectacles. Interestingly, this “most correct of any book on earth” has had over 2,000 textual changes since first published in 1830, and it contains about 27,000 words​—a tenth of the book—​quoted verbatim or slightly modified from the King James Version of the Bible, including some of its translation errors.

Two other books are also considered to be standard works of the church: Doctrine and Covenants and The Pearl of Great Price. In these books, containing further “revelations” and translations, Smith worked out the elaborate system of Mormon theology, including doctrines not found in the Book of Mormon, such as plurality of gods, polygamy, curse of the black race, baptism for the dead and a host of others.

Mormons also believe in continuing revelation​—the heavens are not closed to them. The president of the church, as prophet, seer and revelator, receives communications or answers to current questions direct from God. A recent “revelation” was proclaimed by President Spencer W. Kimball on June 9, 1978, that “all worthy male members of the Church may be ordained to the priesthood without regard for race or color.” That put an end to the mounting racial tension within the church because blacks, barred from the priesthood up to that time, could never attain the celestial kingdom, according to Mormon teaching.a

A Self-serving Religion

Mormons are fond of quoting the words of Lorenzo Snow, their fifth president: “As man is, God once was, and as God is, man may become.” In taking this view, they put personal exaltation and glorification ahead of sanctifying God’s name and doing his will, as exemplified by Jesus Christ. (Matthew 6:9; John 5:30) This is, at best, a self-seeking and self-serving delusion.

Jesus taught his disciples to pray to God: “Let your name be sanctified. Let your kingdom come. Let your will take place, as in heaven, also upon earth.” (Matthew 6:9, 10) Today, Jehovah’s Witnesses worldwide direct people’s attention to God’s Kingdom as the only means for restoring peace and harmony. They look forward to the time when, under the rule of the Messianic Kingdom, earth will be a Paradise restored, and “death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.”​—Revelation 21:4.

[Footnotes]

[Picture on page 25]

Mormon Temple​—Salt Lake City, Utah

Mother Smith’s Testimony

The Mormon Church in Utah recently announced the discovery of an important historical document​—a letter apparently written by Lucy Mack Smith, the mother of Joseph Smith, Jr.

The letter, dated January 23, 1829, was written about a year before Joseph Smith published the Book of Mormon. To her sister-in-law, Lucy Mack Smith wrote: “It is my pleasure to inform you of a great work which the Lord has wrought in our family, for he has made his paths known to Joseph in dreams and it pleased God to show him where he could dig to obtain an ancient record engraven upon plates made of pure gold and this he is able to translate.”

According to church historian Dean Jessee, the letter “shows that at the beginning, as the curtain goes up on the church in 1829, the Smiths are talking and saying the same things that they say in their histories later on.” And that “says something about the credibility of Joseph Smith’s history and his mother’s,” said Jessee.

While the letter may tend to discredit the theory of some critics that Smith wrote the book first as a novel and later claimed its inspiration, it actually does little to establish the book as of genuine divine origin. More importantly, mother Smith’s statement is not really convincing in view of the apostle Paul’s warning at Galatians 1:8: “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.”​—King James Version.

From Our Readers

TV and Reading

I want to thank you for the article entitled “Don’t Let TV Crowd Out Reading.” (August 22, 1982) My wife and I used to watch a lot of television, but since we have stopped watching it so much we have had more time to study and to communicate as husband and wife should.

R. D., North Carolina

The British Monarchy

I was very interested in your article on the British Monarchy (August 22, 1982), in which you mention the cost of supporting it. This is more than offset by the revenue from tourists who like to see our ceremonials. I think that the disgruntled M.P. and others forget the amount of employment that is engendered by our Monarchy. They are our best invisible exports.

R. W., England

I have been interested in reading books about the history of the Kings and Queens of England. Therefore, I enjoyed tremendously the article “Disappearing Monarchies​—Will Britain’s Survive?” I was very impressed with the respectful way in which it was written. It would be wonderful if members of the Royal Family could also read it; it was just so well presented.

M. M., Canada

Selling the Tobacco Company

I have just finished reading the account by Edward George ‘I Quit Church, Smoking, Business’ in the August 22, 1982, issue. While I am impressed by his determination to do the right thing, I am puzzled over his decision to sell his business. He was aware of the bad effect tobacco had on others (and himself) and how smoking and selling tobacco products are counter to God’s wishes, and yet he sold the business for money to someone else who could continue to cause people harm by selling tobacco.

C. L., New Jersey

I have just read the article written by Edward George. Why did he not destroy his tobacco business instead of selling it? All he has done is move his sin to somebody else who may poison the people who smoke. Why was not that truth pointed out to him?

D. R., England

The article is a factual account of the problems faced by the writer as he began to grow in knowledge of Bible principles, and how he endeavored to solve them. Those teaching Edward George would not tell him what to do to solve his problems, but having shown him certain Bible principles would leave it up to him to work out matters according to the state of his conscience. Some persons might reason that since the business was legal there would be no harm in selling it to someone whose conscience would not be bothered by selling such products, even as there are plenty of people willing to purchase the products in good conscience. One might compare the situation to that referred to at Deuteronomy 14:21 where an Israelite was not to eat the flesh of an animal found dead, but he could sell it to a foreigner whose conscience was not under the same restrictions.​—ED.

Watching the World

Concerned Nurses

● The medical magazine Orthopedic Nursing recently considered the subject “Jehovah’s Witnesses and the Problem with Blood.” The article observed: “Jehovah’s Witnesses deeply respect life, and for this reason they do not smoke, use addictive drugs or seek abortions. Their beliefs are based on the rules which they interpret from the Bible. . . . The surgeon who takes on the responsibility of performing surgery on a Jehovah’s Witness should be aware of and respect the patient’s religious rules. . . . Our experience with Jehovah’s Witnesses in orthopedics has been rewarding. The patients have been most cooperative. Although we may not accept their interpretation of the Bible, we feel that health care personnel should be able to provide emotional support and the best therapeutic measures available.”

Economy Route to Space?

● The first privately funded space venture got off the ground in September with the launch of Conestoga 1 from a cattle ranch in Texas. The craft, made of surplus rocket parts, was able to pitch its 1,097-pound (498-kg) mock payload to an altitude of almost 200 miles (320 km) and then splash down into the Gulf of Mexico. The command center for the launch reportedly was housed in two mobile homes and powered by a gasoline generator. When fully developed, the new enterprise hopes to compete with government space agencies in launching satellites. “We feel we can offer a service that NASA [National Aeronautics and Space Administration] cannot,” says the Space Services company chairman. “We can give a quicker response time,” whereas the U.S. space shuttle has to respond first to military demands.

Why Higher Japanese IQ?

● Recently published figures based on assertedly “culture-free” IQ tests indicate that Japanese people have a mean IQ 11 points higher than that of most other people of the industrial nations. The compilation of IQ studies by British psychologist Richard Lynn also indicates a jump of 7 points in one generation for the Japanese. Why? Some attribute the improvement to better health and nutrition, others to the competitive atmosphere of Japanese education. But columnist Joan Beck of the Chicago Tribune suggests that it is “early learning experiences that the Japanese are giving children younger than age 6.” She notes: “Japanese families do put heavy emphasis on learning language at home and on preschool education. . . . Americans involved in early learning research have known for more than a decade that it is possible to increase the IQ of young children by as much as 20 or 30 points by enriching their environment in appropriate and loving ways.”

Macabre Best-Seller

● By September the book Suicide Mode D’Emploi (Suicide operating instructions) had been a French nonfiction best-seller for two months, with sales of over 50,000 copies. As many as 10 suicides had been linked to the book, several victims being found with it lying nearby. The manual contains some 50 recipes for deadly “cocktails” that supposedly are guaranteed to end one’s life “gently.” Publishers in other countries are vying for the rights to print the book in their own languages. Says French publisher Alain Moreau: “I feel no remorse. This is a book that . . . recognizes that the right of suicide is an inalienable right, like the right to work, the right to like certain things, the right to publish.”

Mishap on Venus

● The Soviet Union’s Venera 13 and 14 space probes to Venus functioned smoothly except for an unanticipated mishap. It seems that the spacecraft’s cameras had lens caps that were programmed to pop off during landing. Both functioned perfectly, allowing the cameras to take striking pictures of Venusian soil. However, not everything went so well. A mechanical arm on each craft had a soil-density measuring device mounted at its tip. The one on Venera 13 worked. But Venera 14’s photograph of itself, appearing in Science 82 magazine, clearly revealed that the “spring-loaded plunger, which had one chance to measure the density of Venusian soil, instead sampled the lens cap.”

Disciplining Clergy

● “Serious moral indiscretions, behavior that splits marriages, and criminal offences are just some of the temptations to which a ‘miniscule’ but growing number of Anglican clergymen are falling,” reported London’s Daily Telegraph. Retiring Church of England lawyer David M. Carey added that he has had to handle as many as 50 cases annually involving errant clergy. “There have been cases of clergy in a criminal court charged with sexual offences. There have been even more cases where clergymen have been found committing adultery.” How does the Church deal with such behavior? “A Clergyman convicted of a criminal offence is expelled from his living,” explains the report. “For lesser offences, including adultery, divorce or separation, a clergyman can be moved from his parish, temporarily suspended or given a warning.” It is enlightening to contrast the early Christian congregation’s discipline of adulterous members.​—1 Corinthians 5:11-13.

Less Food Lengthens Life?

● Scientists are finding “increasingly convincing evidence that longevity can be significantly increased by ‘undernutrition’​—a diet that contains all the required nutrients but about a third fewer calories than are needed to maintain ‘normal’ body weight,” reports The New York Times. “Eating less, their animal studies indicate, can add the human equivalent of 40 years to a mammal’s life.” The diseases common to aging are also said to be inhibited because the usual decline in immune responses does not occur.

University of Texas physiologist Dr. Edward J. Masoro says that cutting protein intake by 50 percent greatly lengthens the lives of laboratory animals, and reducing calorie intake by 40 percent adds even more to their life span. And University of California expert on aging Dr. Roy Walford also reports that animal studies indicate a possible 10- to 20-percent increase of life span by cutting down on food starting as late as middle age. “Long-term undernutrition is thus far the only method we know of that retards aging and extends the maximum life span of warm-blooded animals,” said Dr. Walford. “The finding is undoubtedly applicable to humans because it works in every animal species thus far studied.”

Preying on Guilt

● In Japan there is a “growing custom of conducting mizuko-kuyo​—a [Buddhist] mass for unborn babies killed by abortion,” reports the Mainichi Daily News. “Incidentally, mizuko-kuyo is a good source of income for Buddhist temples today. A priest says that without holding a mass for the repose of such babies’ souls, many temples would be financially unable to stand on their own feet.” For up to about $75 (U.S.), the temples sell prayers and a stone or plastic image of Jizo, the guardian deity of children, to guilt-stricken supplicants. Hundreds of thousands of these images, “looking somewhat pathetic,” are kept at the popular Hase Temple in Kamakura, comments the newspaper.

Pasteurize Yourself!

● “A workout, with its natural rise in body temperature, may ward off infection and keep you well,” reports American Health magazine. It explains that recent medical research indicates that, just as a fever is your body’s natural defense against invading bacteria, strenuous exercise also raises body temperature and may, in effect, “pasteurize” bacteria as well. Sustained running, for example, may raise one’s body temperature to as much as 102°F (39°C). Though researchers, such as Dr. Joseph G. Cannon of the University of Michigan, do not recommend running or tennis as treatment for the flu, they do feel that such exercise may be one of the best preventative medicines.

Untouchable Polluter

● According to the French medical daily Le Quotidien du Médecin, the secretary-general of a United Nations environmental conference, Mr. Maurice Strong, brought up the problem of military polluters. “Responsible for scandalous misappropriation of human resources, both material and economic,” he declared, “the military domain has evaded all anti-pollution endeavors and has never been properly controlled, whether in the field of supersonic aircraft, or in the use of chemicals in the environment.” Governments evidently do not want this seemingly “reserved” area of activity to undergo controls. Concluded Mr. Strong: “It does not seem realistic to me to talk about everything that is going on outside the military domain, while absolutely ignoring this very sector that mobilizes the best part of our economy.”

Index to Volume 63 of “Awake!”

ANIMAL AND PLANT LIFE

Breathing​—Bird and Insect Ways, 5/8

Cousins With Contrary Characters, 12/22

Fascinating Relationship, 12/22

First Live Panda in America, 9/22

Help for Animals Abused by Man, 5/22

Petunia​—Playful Porker, 6/22

Psychiatry Goes to the Dogs, 3/22

ECONOMICS AND EMPLOYMENT

Be Cautious With Credit! 6/8

“I Just Want a Job!” 6/8

Robots, 1/22

FROM OUR READERS

(This section appears in each issue.)

HEALTH AND MEDICINE

Air Conditioning and Health, 6/22

Alcoholism, 12/8, 7/8

Dangerous Moral Environment, 12/8

Fight Against Sickness, 12/8

Harmful Eating Habits, 12/8

Noise and Stress, 12/8

Radiation and Chemical Pollution, 12/8

Safeguarding Health, 7/8

Slimming Nightmare, 11/8

Smoking’s Heavy Toll, 11/22

Sound Sleep, 4/8

Sugar’s Present​—How Sweet? 11/22

Think You Have an Ulcer? 9/8

TV​—And Your Health, 10/22

When Sickness Is Conquered Forever, 12/8

Wise Health Decisions, 8/8

You Can Keep Your Teeth! 1/8

HUMAN RELATIONS

Art of Listening, 4/8

“But What Do I Say?” 1/22

Hardest Word, 2/22

Is This Divorce Necessary? 6/8

“Johnny, Please Be Quiet!” 9/8

Learning “From Infancy,” 4/8

Problems of Women, 5/8

“Surviving” the First Year of Marriage, 8/8

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES

“Diary of an Unborn Child” Goes to School, 11/22

Drug Smuggler’s Search for Contentment, 5/22

“Five Days to Live,” 2/8

“From a Lion to a Lamb,” 7/22

Frustrated​—Where Could I Turn? 12/22

Gilead Graduations, 11/8, 5/22

“He’s Going to Be a Little Boy,” 8/8

I Quit Church, Smoking, Business, 8/22

Jehovah’s Witnesses​—The Surgical/​- Ethical Challenge, 6/22

My Search for Comfort, 11/22

Shocking Injustice in Italy, 10/22

Something Better Than the Circus, 6/22

LANDS AND PEOPLES

Disappearing Monarchies, 8/22

Fly to Lyons​—On Wheels! 12/22

Hardworking Japanese, 1/22

In Touch With the “Middle Kingdom,” 2/22

Men Who Were Called “Gods,” 4/22

My Life as an Australian Aborigine, 3/22

Nazca Lines, 1/8

Oddities of the Namib, 11/22

Races​—Their Origin, 2/8

River of Life, River of Death, 1/22

“Wish I’d Kept a Diary!” 3/8

MISCELLANEOUS

Are We Losing the Art of Learning? 9/22

Ballet​—All Grace and Beauty? 2/22

Clean Home, 2/22

Closer Look at Works of Art, 1/8

Don’t Let TV Crowd Out Reading, 8/22

Do They Come Back the Same? 8/8

Dungeons and Dragons, 3/22

Elusive Search for Happiness, 10/8

“From Your Valentine,” 1/22

Gold Rush​—1980’s Style, 4/22

Lotteries and Sweepstakes, 7/8

Motorcyclists, 4/22

Pickles, 6/8

Sports and the Family, 5/22

Sports​—Why the Violence? 5/22

Sugar’s Past​—How Sweet? 11/22

Surfing, 8/22

Teaching Your Baby to Read, 9/22

TV​—Its Impact on World, 10/22

Video Games, 11/8

What’s Happening in the Schools? 5/8

What’s in a Name? 2/8

Where Do All Our Languages Come From? 11/22

Women in Wealthier Lands, 5/8

Women​—Second-Class People? 5/8

Would You Have an Abortion? 3/8

Young People​—Their Plight, 4/22

Your Future​—Is It in Danger? 12/22

RELIGION

“According to Your Faith,” 9/22

Adam and Eve​—Real Persons? 10/8

Appreciating Spiritual Needs, 4/22

Are You Immortal? 4/22

Because They Were Shipwrecked, 10/22

Beyond the Reach of Science, 11/8

Bible’s Amazing Influence, 3/8

Book for All People, 8/8

Can a Realist Believe in God? 9/8

Catholic Church’s Past Attitude Toward the Bible, 3/8

Charismatic Renewal, 2/8

Christendom’s Methods of Conversion, 7/22

Closing Churches in Italy, 12/8

Cursing of the Fig Tree, 7/22

Did a World Once Perish? 6/8

Did You Ever Live Before? 2/22

Divine Monarchy Is Coming! 8/22

Does Astrology Rule Your Life? 5/22

Does God ‘Care About Women’? 5/8

Ever Be Just One Religion? 6/22

Greatest Man of All Time, 4/8

Guide With Impressive Credentials, 7/22

Holy Spirit at Work Today, 2/8

Latter-Day Saints in Today’s World, 12/22

Moon’s Unification Church, 9/8

Protestantism Undermines Respect for Bible, 3/8

Religion​—Force for Peace or War? 3/22

Resurrection of the Body? 7/8

“Secular Humanism,” 3/22

So Much “Happiness”​—A Sign of What? 4/22

They Believe What They Want To, 9/8

‘To the Clean . . . ,’ 7/22

Waiting for the Rapture? 11/22

“Why Did the Clock Stop When Grandpa Died?” 10/22

Why the Bible Is Loved or Hated, 3/8

Your Future​—It Can Be Happy, 12/22

SCIENCE

Air Conditioning​—For Comfort, 6/8

Can Earthquakes Be Predicted? 7/8

Design in Nature, 10/8

Evolution and Passion, 3/22

How Dangerous Atomic Radiation? 3/22

Men and Women​—The Difference, 5/8

Progress of Science, 11/8

Science: A Balanced View, 11/8

Science and the Bible, 11/8

“Talking” to Computers, 10/8

WATCHING THE WORLD

(This section appears in each issue.)

WORLD AFFAIRS AND CONDITIONS

Earth Ruined in Nuclear War? 9/22

Family Breakdown​—“A World Tragedy,” 8/8

New Morality​—How Will It Affect Children? 6/22

Poverty, 1/8

Violence​—Its Roots, 7/22

Will There Ever Be Peace? 2/22

World’s Fair Spotlights Energy, 10/22

YOUNG PEOPLE ASK . . .

Could I Be Hurt by Peer Pressure? 9/8

Does God Really Care About Me? 1/22

Does It Really Matter What I Wear? 12/22

Getting Ahead​—Is That All There Is to Life? 2/22

Honesty​—The Best Policy? 5/8

How Can I Cope With Pressure? 7/22

How Can I Get Rid of the Blues? 10/8

How Can I Make Real Friends? 3/22

Is Anything Worth Believing In? 1/8

Is Dating Harmless Fun? 6/8

Is Dating Really for Me? 6/22

Love at First Sight? 5/22

Love or Infatuation? 4/8

Should I Be Afraid of What Others Think? 9/22

What Can I Do About My Shyness? 11/8

What Future Is There for Any of Us? 11/22

What if It’s More Than Just the Blues? 12/8

What Will Our Future Be? 7/8

When the Music Ends, How Do We Solve the Problems? 8/8

Who Really Is My Friend? 3/8

Why Am I So Shy? 10/22

Why Do I Get So Depressed? 8/22

Why So Many Heartaches if God Cares? 2/8

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