Life’s Lessons Learned: Personal Reflections

“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.

 Contents

Acknowledgments

1. 1. Introduction

1. 1. PART 1. TO 1971
   2. “Not My Will, but Thine, Be Done”
   3. Recovering
   4. Temple Teachings
   5. The Influence of Family Histories
   6. Honor the Sabbath Day
   7. Humility
   8. The Challenge of Indifference
   9. Separating Respect, Affection, and Policy
   10. The Law Is a Blunt Instrument
   11. Turning Points in Life
   12. Worldly Wisdom Yields to Revelation
   13. Preparing for Things to Come

1. 1. PART II: BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY AND THE UTAH SUPREME COURT, 1971 TO 1984
   2. Science and Religion
   3. What Do You Want to Be Remembered For?
   4. Assigning Reasons to Revelation
   5. Adversity
   6. Feelings
   7. Goal Setting
   8. Personal Revelation
   9. Leadership

1. 1. PART III: GENERAL AUTHORITY, 1984 TO PRESENT
   2. Learned from Legal Training
   3. Transition to the Apostleship
   4. Unselfish Service
   5. The Meaning of “Real Intent”
   6. Refusing Requests
   7. Recognizing Revelation
   8. Labeling and Timing
   9. Tithing Blessings
   10. Sins and Mistakes
   11. Looking info the Future
   12. Principles versus Preferences
   13. Caution in Sharing Spiritual Experiences
   14. Death of a Spouse
   15. Second Marriage
   16. Shaking Hands at Stake Conferences
   17. Good Fruits from Unlikely Sources
   18. Testimony of Jesus Christ

Index