175 years ago today - Jul 9, 1843

[Joseph Smith]
"Why is it this babler gains so many followers and retains them?" because I possess the principle of love. All I can offer the world [is] a good heart and a good hand. Mormons can testify whether I am willing to lay down my life for a Mormon. If it has been demostrated that I have been willing to die for a Mormon, I am bold to declare /before heaven/ that I am just as ready to die for a Presbyterian, a Baptist, or any other denomination. It is a love of liberty which inspires my soul. Civil and religious liberty were diffused into my soul by my grandfathers while they dandled me on their knees and shall I want friends? No!

"Where in do you differ from other[s] in your religion views?" In reality and essence we do not differ so far in our religious views but that we could all drink into [from] one principle of love. One [of] the grand fundamental principles of Mormonism is to receive truth. Let it come from where it may.

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1843, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

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