This post is part of the General Conference Odyssey. This week covers the Saturday Afternoon Session of the October 2002 Conference.
I've often read Elder Scott (and others, I'm sure) reminding us that it's not helpful to ask "why me?" or "why did this happen?" sorts of questions when we are enduring trials. But I liked the elaboration Elder Lance B. Wickman gave on how that mindset helps us:
Still, we mortals quite naturally want to know the why. Yet, in pressing too earnestly for the answer, we may forget that mortality was designed, in a manner of speaking, as the season of unanswered questions. Mortality has a different, more narrowly defined purpose: It is a proving ground, a probationary state, a time to walk by faith, a time to prepare to meet God. It is in nurturing humility and submissiveness that we may comprehend a fulness of the intended mortal experience and put ourselves in a frame of mind and heart to receive the promptings of the Spirit. Reduced to their essence, humility and submissiveness are an expression of complete willingness to let the “why” questions go unanswered for now, or perhaps even to ask, “Why not?” It is in enduring well to the end that we achieve this life’s purposes. I believe that mortality’s supreme test is to face the “why” and then let it go, trusting humbly in the Lord’s promise that “all things must come to pass in their time.”
Other posts in this series:
Blessed are the Peacemakers—by Rozy
I enjoyed this talk also. It resonated with me after going through our family tragedy this year. People would say to me, "No mother should have to go through this." Inwardly I'd ask, "Why not? Isn't this part of the test of mortality?" I committed myself to staying faithful and not giving up in the face of almost debilitating grief. This is my test and I must pass. There won't be any answers on this side of the veil so it doesn't do any good to ask. My prayer has been, and will continue to be "Please don't let me become bitter. Help me to be compassionate to others."
ReplyDeleteI really like this quote! I like the idea of this being the season of unanswered questions.
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