Pres. Uchtdorf's Priesthood session 2009

I have been listening to the last session of General Conference and have now ventured into the Priesthood session. I loved Pres. Uchtdorf's talk so much that I wanted to share it but also to remember it myself.

Two Principles for Any Economy

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Second Counselor in the First Presidency

It is often in the trial of adversity that we learn those most critical lessons that form our character and shape our destiny.

President Dieter F. UchtdorfIn our travels visiting Church members throughout the world and by means of established priesthood channels, we receive firsthand feedback on the conditions and challenges of our members. For years many of our members have been affected by worldwide disasters, both natural and man-made. We also understand that families have had to tighten their belts and are concerned about enduring these challenging times.

Brethren, we do feel very close to you. We love you, and we pray always for you. I have seen enough ups and downs throughout my life to know that winter will surely give way to the warmth and hope of a new spring. I am optimistic about the future. Brethren, for our part, we must remain steadfast in hope, work with all our strength, and trust in God.

Lately I have been thinking of a time in my life when the weight of worry and concern over an uncertain future seemed ever present. I was 11 years old and living with my family in the attic of a farmhouse near Frankfurt, Germany. We were refugees for the second time in a period of only a few years, and we were struggling to establish ourselves in a new place far away from our previous home. I could say that we were poor, but that would be an understatement. We all slept in one room that was so tiny there was scarcely space to walk around the beds. In the other small room, we had a few pieces of modest furniture and a stove that Mother used to cook meals on. To get from one room to the other, we had to pass through a storage area where the farmer kept his equipment and tools, along with assorted meats and sausages hanging from the rafters. The aroma always made me very hungry. We had no bathroom, but we did have an outhouse—down the stairs and some 50 feet (15 m) away, though it seemed much farther during wintertime.

Because I was a refugee and because of my East German accent, other children often made fun of me and called me names that deeply hurt. Of all the times of my youth, I believe this may have been the most discouraging.

Now, decades later, I can look back on those days through the softening filter of experience. Even though I still remember the hurt and despair, I can see now what I was unable to see then: this was a period of great personal growth. During this time, our family bonded together. I watched and learned from my parents. I admired their determination and optimism. From them I learned that adversity, when confronted with faith, courage, and tenacity, could be overcome.

Knowing that some of you are experiencing your own periods of anxiety and despair, I wanted to speak today about two important principles that sustained me through this formative period of my life.


The First Principle: Work

To this day, I am deeply impressed by the way my family worked after having lost everything following World War II! I remember my father—a civil servant by education and experience—taking on several difficult jobs, among which were coal miner, uranium miner, mechanic, and truck driver. He left early in the morning and often returned late at night in order to support our family. My mother started a laundry and worked countless hours doing menial labor. She enlisted my sister and me in her business. With my bike I became the pickup and delivery service. It felt good to be able to help the family in a small way, and though I did not know it at the time, the physical labor turned out to be a blessing to my health as well.

It wasn’t easy, but the work kept us from dwelling too much on the difficulties of our circumstances. Although our situation didn’t change overnight, it did change. That’s the thing about work. If we simply keep at it—steady and constant—things certainly will improve.

How I admire men, women, and children who know how to work! How the Lord loves the laborer! He said, “In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread,”1 and “The laborer is worthy of his hire.”2 He also gave a promise: “Thrust in your sickle with all your soul, and your sins are forgiven you.”3 Those who are unafraid to roll up their sleeves and lose themselves in the pursuit of worthwhile goals are a blessing to their families, communities, nations, and to the Church.

The Lord doesn’t expect us to work harder than we are able. He doesn’t (nor should we) compare our efforts to those of others. Our Heavenly Father asks only that we do the best we can—that we work according to our full capacity, however great or small that may be.

Work is an antidote for anxiety, an ointment for sorrow, and a doorway to possibility. Whatever our circumstances in life, my dear brethren, let us do the best we can and cultivate a reputation for excellence in all that we do. Let us set our minds and bodies to the glorious opportunity for work that each new day presents.

When our wagon gets stuck in the mud, God is much more likely to assist the man who gets out to push than the man who merely raises his voice in prayer—no matter how eloquent the oration. President Thomas S. Monson put it this way: “It is not enough to want to make the effort and to say we’ll make the effort. . . . It’s in the doing, not just the thinking, that we accomplish our goals. If we constantly put our goals off, we will never see them fulfilled.”4

Work can be ennobling and fulfilling, but remember Jacob’s warning not to “spend . . . your labor for that which cannot satisfy.”5 If we devote ourselves to the pursuit of worldly wealth and the glitter of public recognition at the expense of our families and our spiritual growth, we will discover soon enough that we have made a fool’s bargain. The righteous work we do within the walls of our homes is most sacred; its benefits are eternal in nature. It cannot be delegated. It is the foundation of our work as priesthood holders.

Remember, we are only temporary travelers in this world. Let us not devote our God-given talents and energies solely to setting earthly anchors, but rather let us spend our days growing spiritual wings. For, as sons of the Most High God, we were created to soar unto new horizons.

Now, a word to us seasoned brethren: retirement is not part of the Lord’s plan of happiness. There is no sabbatical or retirement program from priesthood responsibilities—regardless of age or physical capacity. While the phrase “been there, done that” may work as an excuse to avoid skateboarding, decline the invitation for a motorbike ride, or bypass the spicy curry at the buffet, it is not an acceptable excuse for avoiding covenant responsibilities to consecrate our time, talents, and resources in the work of the kingdom of God.

There may be those who, after many years of Church service, believe they are entitled to a period of rest while others pull the weight. To put it bluntly, brethren, this sort of thinking is unworthy of a disciple of Christ. A great part of our work on this earth is to endure joyfully to the end—every day of our life.

Now, a word also to our younger brethren of the Melchizedek Priesthood, who are pursuing the righteous goals of obtaining an education and finding an eternal spouse. These are the correct goals, my brethren, but remember: working diligently in the Lord’s vineyard will greatly upgrade your résumé and increase the probability for success in both of these worthy endeavors.

Whether you are the youngest deacon or the oldest high priest, there is work to do!


The Second Principle: Learn

During the difficult economic conditions of postwar Germany, opportunities for education were not as abundant as they are today. But in spite of limited options, I always felt an eagerness to learn. I remember one day, while I was out on my bike delivering laundry, I entered the home of a classmate of mine. In one of the rooms, two small desks were nestled against the wall. What a wonderful sight that was! How fortunate those children were to have desks of their own! I could imagine them sitting with open books studying their lessons and doing their homework. It seemed to me that having a desk of my own would be the most wonderful thing in the world.

I had to wait a long time before that wish was fulfilled. Years later, I got a job at a research institution that had a large library. I remember spending much of my free time in that library. There I could finally sit at a desk—by myself—and drink in the information and knowledge that books provide. How I loved to read and learn! In those days I understood firsthand the words of an old saying: Education is not so much the filling of a bucket as the lighting of a fire.

For members of the Church, education is not merely a good idea—it’s a commandment. We are to learn “of things both in heaven and in the earth, and under the earth; things which have been, things which are, things which must shortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad.”6

Joseph Smith loved learning even though he had few opportunities for formal education. In his journals, he spoke happily of days spent in study and often expressed his love of learning.7

Joseph taught the Saints that knowledge was a necessary part of our mortal journey, for “a man is saved no faster than he [gains] knowledge,”8 and that “whatever principle of intelligence we attain . . . in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection.”9 During challenging times, it is even more important to learn. The Prophet Joseph taught, “Knowledge does away with darkness, [anxiety], and doubt; for these cannot exist where knowledge is.”10

Brethren, you have a duty to learn as much as you can. Please encourage your families, your quorum members, everyone to learn and become better educated. If formal education is not available, do not allow that to prevent you from acquiring all the knowledge you can. Under such circumstances, the best books, in a sense, can become your “university”—a classroom that is always open and admits all who apply. Strive to increase your knowledge of all that is “virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy.”11 Seek knowledge “by study and also by faith.”12 Seek with a humble spirit and contrite heart.13 As you apply the spiritual dimension of faith to your study—even of temporal things—you can amplify your intellectual capacity, for “if your eye be single to [God’s] glory, your whole [body] shall be filled with light, . . . and [comprehend] all things.”14

In our learning, let us not neglect the fountain of revelation. The scriptures and the words of modern-day apostles and prophets are the sources of wisdom, divine knowledge, and personal revelation to help us find answers to all the challenges in life. Let us learn of Christ; let us seek out that knowledge which leads to peace, truth, and the sublime mysteries of eternity.15


Conclusion

Brethren, I think back on that 11-year-old boy in Frankfurt, Germany, who worried about his future and felt the lasting sting of unkind remarks. I remember this time with a sort of sad fondness. While I would not be eager to relive those days of trial and trouble, I have little doubt that the lessons I learned were a necessary preparation for future opportunity. Now, many years later, I know this for a certainty: it is often in the trial of adversity that we learn those most critical lessons that form our character and shape our destiny.

I pray that during the coming months and years we can fill our hours and days with righteous work. I pray that we will seek to learn and improve our minds and hearts by drinking deeply from the pure fountains of truth. I leave you my love and blessings in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Rain rain go away????

I was a bit shocked this morning when I opened the garage door and saw more rain and fog. I didn't know it had been raining. I haven't watched the morning news this whole week due to my new goal of listening to a conference address while I get ready. As I was driving to work today I realized that I love rain.

Not only does it bath the earth and cleans it so everything looks fresh and new after but there is a wonderful smell that comes with rain. I also enjoy rain because it reminds me that we need water to survive and this is slightly important in my opinion.

When we lived in California we were having a severe drought and the time came when we were asked as an area to fast and pray for rain. We of course participated and having small children we saw this as a great time to get them involved and to teach them about fasting and praying and how we can ask the Lord for those things we need.

We talked to the kids and we prayed and fasted. The rain came and we reinforced the lesson about the mercy of the Lord. A few days after our lesson on praying, fasting and the Lord blessing us with rain we knelt down to have family prayer. Bryan was in Kindergarten and was asked to say the prayer. In his sweet child's innocence he prayed for more rain. We did need more rain that was for sure but as I stood outside with him waiting for the bus I thought to myself, gee I guess we will need to have a talk about how sometimes ours prayers aren't answered right away or we are given a no answer. "Poor little guy isn't going to have his prayers answered this time." The sky was blue and it was a beautiful day. There wasn't going to be any rain today.

Off he went to school and into the house I went sure my adult knowledge and observations were correct. The day went on and much to my surprise the rain came. I felt like such a fool for not having the simple child like faith my son had. His simple prayer was answered in the form of rain. Such a powerful lesson from a wee one!

So fast forward today, whenever I see rain I always think of answered prayers. I was taught that day by a small child who had full faith his prayer would be answered. I am thankful for those sweet lessons of life!

Girls Weekend

Last weekend was wonderful. I enjoyed even the drive to and from Orlando. The girls and I went to Time Out for Women. We have done this together for about 3 or 4 years. The whole TOFW was amazing and I was able to renew my desires to be a woman of God. I haven't always been active in doing that. I know shocking isn't it. ;-) HA!

We were able to listen to Sheri Dew and Wendy Nelson on Friday night. Saturday was just as enjoyable as Friday night was. Sheri Dew shared with us that she is trying to read/listen to a General Conference talk each day. That instead of having the tv on she puts on a conference talk. I thought that was a great idea. I have tried this these past 3 mornings and I will say it makes my days much better. This morning I listened to Elder Scott's talk and finding nuggets within his talk that were for me to hear again. Like this one-

"As each impression came, I carefully wrote it down. In the process, I was given precious truths that I greatly needed in order to be a more effective servant of the Lord. The details of the communication are sacred and, like a patriarchal blessing, were for my individual benefit. I was given specific directions, instructions, and conditioned promises that have beneficially altered the course of my life."

That is how I felt this past weekend. So much information was coming quickly that I needed to know and hear that my hand would cramp up as I tried to write down what I was being taught. Sometimes they were direct quotes from the speakers and sometimes they were general thoughts with key words so I could go back and fill in what I couldn't manage to get written down the first time. Just like Elder Scott talked about the information I received was much like a patriarchal blessing, it was for my individual benefit.

Kristen, Alyse and I talked at dinner Saturday evening about what we enjoyed most. What speakers we really enjoyed and any thoughts we had during the conference. What a wonderful way to end an amazing day. I am sure those are the times that each mother tucks into her heart to recall at will. I know I will.

I will try to put on here my notes so that I can go over what I learned. Not so much for everyone to read but to write them again so they will sink deeper into my heart. The theme of the conference was "Infinite Hope".

While I was listening to Mercy River sing on Saturday I had many thoughts come to me and one was to purchase one of their CD's for my co-worker Connie. Since the passing of Jimmy I have seen her struggle and mourn. It brings back the memories of my Mom grieving when my Dad passed away. As I heard them sing the song "We all Need Saving" I had a clear and distinct voice tell me that she needed this CD. The Lord always seem makes things happen so we can accomplish His work, they finished the song and there was a 15 minute break. I knew this was a prompting since it came out of no where so I jumped up and bought it for her.

Now came the next part. Giving it to her. I went to work Monday and with the CD in my purse I put everything down on my desk removed the CD and walked directly to her office. I asked if I could come in and I proceeded to tell her about my weekend and how marvelous it was. Then I told her about my prompting and gave her the CD.

I did tell her I didn't know if she even like this kind of music but I was told she needed it. She about cried. We talked about the conference and I shared some of the different stories. We talked about hope and faith. We talked for a good 45 mins. It was a wonderful experience. I told her I hoped the music might give her some peace. She has since stopped by twice and shared with me how much she has enjoyed the music. I have no idea what will happen and even if nothing does it was a marvelous experience.

So I am deeply grateful for the rush of spiritual thoughts that have come to my mind since this weekend. Sis. Nelson talked about becoming a holier woman each day. How would a holy women react to this or that. I am going to try to really apply this to my life and especially to my daily commutes in the car. I KNOW I am not a holy woman in the car. :-)

I am thankful for the push to get back on track again. My sails are filled and I am ready to soar to new heights!

Lost socks

So I quickly put on my sweats this morning only to find something inside the pant leg by my knee. I reached in and pulled out a sock. I have had this happen before but it made me wonder this morning how many other lost socks are hiding in pants and other assorted places. And how long do they hide out in these place if they are never felt. Could this be the whereabouts of where the lost socks go? I have found a sock in my pant leg at work. Nothing like pulling a sock out of your pant leg with coworkers watching. Gee that's where that sock was. :-\

When the kids were younger I use to have a bag of socks I would try to match each time I did laundry, cleaned out drawers, looked under beds and in toy boxes. Sometimes they were found but most of the time they were gone. I did get to know these lost socks pretty well after looking for their mates for so long. When I found a match I got quite excited until I realized my victory was to be short lived since this was a never ending vicious cycle.

Now that it is just Mike and I at home I have noticed that this doesn't happen too often anymore. More times than not we come out even in the sock venue. Now we just miss parts of our memory and wonder where it has gone too. Maybe I should look in the legs of our pants. I just want to go on record as saying... give me lost socks over memory loss any day!

Golden Oldies

So age has never really bothered me until maybe now. Mike and I turn 50 this year. Yes that is half way to 100!

I went to the dentist today and while they were working on my teeth they were talking (it was kind of hard to hear them but that is another matter for older people I guess) about the music they love to listen too. How "those" songs were ones you could really sing too. Not like the music today. I was thinking well there are a few good song out today but ya not many. I love the songs we grew up with. They are classics. I was asked today if I went to Woodstock. I said in a garbled sound... um NO! Me at Woodstock?? That was way before my time. I was a mere child of 8 or 9 when that took place.

So after leaving the dental office I thought about our conversation and decided that my music is not of the "Golden Oldies" era! That is my parents era and it surely must have Lawrence Welk involved to be a "Golden Oldie." But I found myself watching the good old Mr. Welk show this past weekend and liking that music. Mike was even whistling to it as well. Now come on does that qualify us for being old? I think not!

Yet we have gone to the Dr.'s office for physicals and are now booked to have that famous test called Colonoscopy. Wow really? That was always meant for old-er people. Those who have lived a long time not us. This must not surely mean that we have now ventured into the "Golden Oldie" era age ourselves. If so, when did this happen? UGH!!!!

Come on education!

So on Tuesday I left work a bit early and drove over to TCC (Tallahassee Community College) and talked to a great counselor. She was wonderful. She mapped out a schedule of classes that I would need in order to graduate. If I wanted to just get another AA I needed certain classes and if I wanted to get my AS in nursing I would take need other classes.

Wow- I felt so pumped in finally finding someone who could give me some direction. As it turns out TCC nursing program (which is actually better then FSU's I hear) only looks at the pre-recs for entry into their program. It will take me about 6 semesters to get myself back on track and GPA friendly again. So I should be finished with an AS degree in Nursing or my BS in something else in about 4 years. If I choose nursing I would transition over to what is called a Bridging program to get my BS in nursing (one more year). At this point I will hope I can find a school that is close by that offers a masters in OT or Nurse Practitioner. I know pretty lofty goals but it feels great to have these types of goals.

Nancy did suggest some other areas of work such as Speech Therapy, Child life specialist (ya I'm still checking into that one), Guidance counselor for students with disabilities. And so forth. She did tell me that I didn't have to choose that day what it would be but I had about 2 semesters or before the semester of my Anatomy and Physiology class. She said that class is my investment in nursing.

So I reapplied to TCC last night. I had to declare what major I wanted and I choose nursing for right now. So I have started on my journey. I am going to seek for my passion and "calling" if you will. I am a bit scared but very excited. Okay, I must go and study up for a College Placement Test for Math. Could be fun!

New favorite song.