“Contents,” New Era, Aug. 1999 New Era August 1999 Volume 29, Number 8 Contents The Message: How to Be HappyElder Marlin K. JensenNephi’s description of the “manner of happiness” makes an excellent guide. The Friend I Could Have BeenKathleen A. HewlettI was mean to him when I should have been kind, and it came back to haunt me. Twice BlessedDaniel Thomas BradyRead by the light of the Spirit, my patriarchal blessing was anything but routine. A Time to HealBarbara Jean JonesIn the aftermath of a school shooting, seminary students share some profound insights. Q&A: Questions and AnswersMy friends who aren’t members of the Church don’t understand why I want to serve a full-time mission. How can I help them understand what a blessing a mission can be? Mormonad: Don’t Live on the Edge ShowtimeJanet ThomasWhen a California stake puts on a variety show for the community, both audience and cast have a great experience. Searching for Mary EllenJoseph ShumwayOne of my ancestors was missing—missing her temple blessings, that is—until I could find a record of her. Roots and BranchesLisa M. G. CrockettIn the isolation of two small Australian towns, faith and friendships thrive. Ultimate VictoryDouglas B. BernardAgainst my coach’s advice, I chose not to train on Sunday. The results were unexpected. Idea List: Beat Summertime Boredom The Bulletin Board Fiction: Good SamAdrian Robert GostickFor a bully named Randy, we were easy pickings. Then Sam came along. Mormonisms In MadagascarAnita F. BottOn an island famous for rare plants and animals, the gospel is taking root in young lives. FeedbackLetters to the editors Poem: Last Day at the BeachClaris Wright Photo of the MonthCalvin McDonald Cover: When the Thousand Oaks California Stake staged a variety show for the community, young performers like Stacey Winn, Thousand Oaks Fourth Ward, learned a lot more than just lyrics and dance steps. See “Showtime,” p. 20. Cover photography: Janet Thomas (front), Lana Leishman (back).