I spent some time thinking about what I read yesterday, and the several days of reading previous to yesterday were thrown into sharp relief. Men and women are looking to acquire wealth, power, influence and doing it at the expense of others. Their motives are shrouded in the veil of false religion and patriotism. The ever familiar chorus of neglecting the poor, needy, widowed, fatherless, while seeking fine clothing (which of course is a proxy for anything we buy with the intent to set us apart from others). It all sounds so familiar, the refrain but we have heard it before. After working in several industries, including Finance, the idea of acquiring wealth has changed for me, I used to think I just needed more money. I learned that when you are looking for money you will never find enough. Isaiah's description of kicking against the pricks comes to mind, what it feels like to make money a priority. I have become more content with what I have, and have learned to slow down because of it. Again, in sharp relief we have a different perspective, reading Alma, the Standard of Liberty. There is no reference to self, or advantage but liberty, peace, freedom. Of course you would have to read more to understand the true nature of those leaders, but they are not looking to aggrandize themselves or garner influence, no, establish laws that allow us to prosper in ways that bring true peace. Can we stand tall and stand for things that really matter? I hope so, and I hope that we have those that will do what is right for right's sake and not for that which will leave hungry and thirsty when we wake up.