Saturday, December 13, 2008

'Come What May, and Love It'

This quote comes from a talk by Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin during the past General Conference. As many of you know, he recently passed away. There is a special broadcast that the church put together here about Elder Wirthlin. I am greatful that he was able to give this talk as it has given me a more positive perspective on trials. His thoughts are in red and mine are in green to make this easier.
I don't know what it is, but recently we have had one trial after another. Not just my car won't start trials, but real hardship. Trials
while often difficult to bear at the time, are precisely the kinds of experiences that stretch our understanding, build our character, and increase our compassion for others. I have seen this to be true, as I have searched for answers to my questions why and what am I supposed to learn. Elder Wirthlin summarized the basic things we need to do in order to 'love it':
As we look for humor,
seek for the eternal perspective,
understand the principle of compensation,
and draw near to our Heavenly Father,
we can endure hardship and trial.
But I do believe that the way we react
to adversity can be a major factor in how
happy and successful we can be in life.
I only hope that I can have such an eternally bound mind that continues to become more like the Savior everyday, enduring trials with hope and optimism. I know its tough...boy do I ever. I know that if we try to make each hardship a learning experience and truly focus on becoming better, we can draw closer to the Savior. Elder Wirthlin's daughter was going though a tough time and he wrote on a piece of paper:
“The simple secret is this: put your
trust in the Lord, do your best, then
leave the rest to Him.”
I sincerely hope that each one of you is comforted in your time of need and sorrow; that every day is better and that you feel just how much love Heavenly Father has for you.

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