The Things That Matter Most

In President Uchtdorf’s most recent General Conference address, he combines analogy, humor, and the telling of stories to guide and direct us to what matters most: the gospel of Jesus Christ.

President Uchtdorf immediately captures our attention with two analogies connected by humor.  His first is about the growth of trees slowing down when conditions are less than ideal.  President Uchtdorf then inserts humor to transition us to his next analogy: “At this point some of you may be thinking, ‘That’s all very fine and good, but what does it have to do with flying an airplane?’ Well, let me tell you.”  For the last six years, we have been listening to analogies from his years of being a pilot. With his next analogy concerning turbulence in the air and the need for a pilot to reduce his speed at such times, he reaffirms his point that, like the growth of the tree, it is not only natural, but a good idea “to slow down a little, steady the course, and focus on the essentials when experiencing adverse conditions.” For those of us who have felt the pain of inadequacy that comes at times of adversity due to an inability to do more than just survive, this was a message to be grateful for.

 President Uchtdorf continues with stories to support his admonition to simplify our lives and come back to what he lists as four basic priorities: “First, our relationship with God is most sacred and vital…Our second key relationship is with our families…The third key relationship we have is with our fellowman…The fourth key relationship is with ourselves.”

In a light and humorous tone, through analogy and storytelling, President Uchtdorf shares with us the solution to the stresses of the world which are to joyfully partake in the doctrines of the pure gospel and to refocus on what matters most.