Life’s Lessons Learned

Description

Dallin H. Oaks, Life’s Lessons Learned (2011)

“I have learned things that have shaped my life and teachings, including some things of the heart not previously shared,” writes Elder Dallin H. Oaks in the introduction to this unique book. “This is an autobiography of learning and application rather than a compendium of doctrine.”

Masterfully blending personal experiences with the doctrines of the gospel, Elder Oaks invites us to join him on a journey through some of the turning points in his life and the lessons he has learned through a lifetime of devotion to the Savior.

The short but potent chapters offer perceptive observations into such diverse topics as the purpose of adversity, the importance of respecting those with whom we disagree personally or politically, the merits and limitations of law, the blessings of tithing, the seeming conflict between science and religion, the Lord’s use of imperfect people to further His work, and the power of the Atonement to recover those who have fallen behind.

Elder Oaks also relates the very personal lessons he learned from the death of his wife, June, and from his subsequent marriage to Kristen McMain.

Woven throughout the book is Elder Oak’s powerful testimony of the Savior and His mission. Life’s Lessons Learned is a rare glimpse into the experiences of the heart that have shaped the life of an Apostle of God.

1. Contents
   Acknowledgments

2. Introduction

3. PART 1. TO 1971

4. “Not My Will, but Thine, Be Done”

5. Recovering

6. Temple Teachings

7. The Influence of Family Histories

8. Honor the Sabbath Day

9. Humility

10. The Challenge of Indifference

11. Separating Respect, Affection, and Policy

12. The Law Is a Blunt Instrument

13. Turning Points in Life

14. Worldly Wisdom Yields to Revelation

15. Preparing for Things to Come

16. PART II: BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY AND THE UTAH SUPREME COURT, 1971 TO 1984

17. Science and Religion

18. What Do You Want to Be Remembered For?

19. Assigning Reasons to Revelation

20. Adversity

21. Feelings

22. Goal Setting

23. Personal Revelation

24. Leadership

25. PART III: GENERAL AUTHORITY, 1984 TO PRESENT

26. Learned from Legal Training

27. Transition to the Apostleship

28. Unselfish Service

29. The Meaning of “Real Intent”

30. Refusing Requests

31. Recognizing Revelation

32. Labeling and Timing

33. Tithing Blessings

34. Sins and Mistakes

35. Looking info the Future

36. Principles versus Preferences

37. Caution in Sharing Spiritual Experiences

38. Death of a Spouse

39. Second Marriage

40. Shaking Hands at Stake Conferences

41. Good Fruits from Unlikely Sources

42. Testimony of Jesus Christ