Brightening My Light

The Sunbeam lesson I taught today was "Music Makes Me Happy." Whether it be instrumental or voice, music can calm fear, brighten sorrow, and dispel anger, and it serves as a way to praise and pray to Heavenly Father. "There is no music in hell," said Brigham Young, "for all good music belongs to heaven." He also said, "If we could hear the music there is in heaven, it would overwhelm us mortals." We may not yet be able to hear heaven's music, but "never, indeed, do we feel so near heaven as when listening to the performance of some grand anthem, in which the angels themselves might fitly take their parts" (John Taylor). Good music and grand anthems take form in Church-related and classical music. "If you do not have a taste for it [classical music], listen to it thoughtfully," counseled President Hinckley. "If you do not like it the first time, listen to it again and keep listening. It will be something like going to ...

After my endowment in San Diego In General Conference 1997, Elder Carlos E. Asay shared the following story: “A few years ago, in a seminar for new temple presidents and matrons, Elder James E. Faust, then of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, told about his being called to serve as a General Authority. He was asked only one question by President Harold B. Lee: ‘Do you wear the garments properly?’ to which he answered in the affirmative. He then asked if President Lee wasn’t going to ask him about his worthiness. President Lee replied that he didn’t need to, for he had learned from experience that how one wears the garment is the expression of how the individual feels about the Church and everything that relates to it. It is a measure of one’s worthiness and devotion to the gospel.” Can you imagine a temple recommend interview based on that one question? I can, for the proper wearing of garments shows modesty, obedience, and respect for, understanding of, and dedication to temple ...

With the seasons changing, I am reminded of all the creations Jesus made. Although all are different, each is beautiful in its own way: from the starry heavens to the deep oceans, the lush forests to the barren deserts, the majestic mountains to the tiny flowers, the galloping horse to the waddling penguin, the flying birds to the swimming fish. They all testify of His existence, power, artistry, and love, as written in my favorite Primary song: Whenever I hear the song of a bird Or look at the blue, blue sky, Whenever I feel the rain on my face Or the wind as it rushes by, Whenever I touch a velvet rose Or walk by a lilac tree, I'm glad that I live in this beautiful world Heavenly Father created for me. He gave me my eyes that I might see The color of butterfly wings. He gave me my ears that I might hear The magical sound of things. He gave me my life, my mind, my heart: I thank him reverently For all his creations, of which I'm a part. Yes, I know Heavenly Father loves me. (...

It never ceases to amaze me how each Conference seems even better than the last. This one was no exception. We heard powerful talks, sweet testimonies, inspiring stories, and beautiful music. The theme for this General Conference was love for God and for others. Although not all talks specifically brought up this subject, they all stemmed from it: personal revelation helps us to the keep commandments, which shows God we love Him; we do missionary work because we love God's children and want them to be happy; we become more like Christ when we love God and others; and so on. I have so many favorite talks and quotes, but my absolute favorite was President Uchtdorf's talk about love. His message was very clear, informative, encouraging, and interesting. President Uchtdorf is a talented speaker. I can feel his love and testimony when he speaks. There is much I learned and need to work on. I can't wait for the November Ensign ! Sharing Time: What was your favorite talk? Photo fr...