Lesson Summary: July 27, 2014

Tori G. gave the lesson using the following general conference talks: "Grateful in Any Circumstances" by President Uchtdorf and "Bear Up Their Burdens with Ease" by Elder Bednar. 

Tori started off the lesson by discussing her adventure while on a boat from Italy. She discussed how her "deck" seats were less than desirable and how she was extremely grateful when able to upgrade to a cabin seat. She discussed how grateful she was for the simple luxuries during this trip. 

"Everyone’s situation is different, and the details of each life are unique. Nevertheless, I have learned that there is something that would take away the bitterness that may come into our lives. There is one thing we can do to make life sweeter, more joyful, even glorious.We can be grateful!It might sound contrary to the wisdom of the world to suggest that one who is burdened with sorrow should give thanks to God. But those who set aside the bottle of bitterness and lift instead the goblet of gratitude can find a purifying drink of healing, peace, and understanding" Elder Uchtdorf

Have gratitude in the midst of challenges. The blessings we receive when we are grateful carry us through the tough times. 

Examples of gratitude- class discussion: 

• Kathryn L. discussed how everything good comes from God and we should be grateful.

• Alice M. discussed how a gratitude journal helped prevent her from falling into "ruts"

• Carolyn T. described how she found gratitude among pain after experiencing a painful trial. We can be grateful even when acknowledging things are bad.

"In any circumstance, our sense of gratitude is nourished by the many and sacred truths we do know: that our Father has given His children the great plan of happiness; that through the Atonement of His Son, Jesus Christ, we can live forever with our loved ones; that in the end, we will have glorious, perfect, and immortal bodies, unburdened by sickness or disability; and that our tears of sadness and loss will be replaced with an abundance of happiness and joy, “good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over." Elder Uchtdorf

Tori then summarized Elder Bednar's story about a friend who acquired a truck and got stuck in the snow. HIs friend got out of the vehicle and started cutting his firewood. After he had filled the truck with his heavy load, he was able to move the truck back onto the road. see Elder Bednar's talk for the full story. 

When was a time you turned to the Savior when pulling a heavy load?

• Jule S. shared how she was amazed at all they were able to accomplish with the Lord's help when recently moving. 

14 And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.
15 And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.
Mosiah 24:14-15

Thanks Tori for the wonderful lesson!