Familiarity can lead to a kind of blindness, in life and in religion. The familiar's first principles and ordinances of the gospel are particularly at risk for misunderstanding through neglect. This does not need to be the case. A tapestry of personal stories, scripture, history, and perspectives of other religious tradtions can help readers re-embrace the power of these foundational LDS teachings and sacred ordinances. A new focus on relationships with God and other people can transform our understanding and experience of faith and repentance, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost. First Principles and Ordinances merges heart and mind to bring the sprirt of God into the reader's life.