A Time to Prepare" by Elder Ardern & "Forget Me Not" by President Uchtdorf

Taught by Tracy H.
Part two:
President Uchtdorf ~ "Forget Me Not"


President Uchtdorf relates the German legend that just as God had finished naming all the plants, one was left unnamed.  A tiny voice spoke out "Forget me not, O Lord!" and God replied, that this would be its name.

He speaks of the five petals on the flower representing five things to "Forget-Me-Not".

The first petal is to help us to 'forget-not' to be patient with yourself.

"I want to tell you something....God is fully aware that you and I are not perfect."  "Let me add: God is also fully aware that the people you think are perfect, are not."

What is my idea of personal perfection? Possessing the body of Jillian Michaels, the imagination of Tina fey, the wit of Sandra Bullock, the speaking ability of Meryl Streep and the faith and inspiration of Elaine Dalton.  Unfortunately, that's just not realistic.

It's wonderful that we have strengths, and it is part of our mortal experience that we have weaknesses.  God wants to help us to eventually turn our weaknesses into strengths, but he knows that this is a long term goal.

He pleads with us to remember to be patient and compassionate with ourselves.

Second, 'Forget-not' the difference between a good sacrifice and a foolish sacrifice.

Two good examples that he uses are; giving up a little sleep to help a child who is having a nightmare is making a good sacrifice.  Staying up all night, jeopardizing our own health to make the perfect accessory for a daughters Sunday outfit may not be such a good sacrifice.  

Every person and situation is different, and a good sacrifice in one instance might be a foolish sacrifice for another.

Third - 'Forget-not' to be happy now.

Don't be like the people in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and get so consumed with finding the golden ticket that you no longer enjoy the wonderful chocolate.

"That is not to say that we should abandon hope or temper our goals.  Never stop striving for the best that is within you.  Never stop hoping for all the righteous desires of your heart.  But don't close your eyes and hearts to the simple and elegant beauties of each day's ordinary moments that make up a rich well lived life."

Fourth - 'Forget-not' the "why" of the gospel.

While understanding the "what" and the "how" of the gospel is necessary, the eternal fire and majesty of the gospel springs from the "why". When we understand why our Heavenly Father has given us this pattern of living, when we remember why we committed to making it a foundational part of our lives, the gospel ceases to become a burden and instead, becomes a joy and delight  It becomes precious and sweet.

Fifth - 'Forget-not' that the Lord loves you.

"God loves you because you are His child.  He loves you even though at times you may feel lonely or make mistakes."

"The love of God and the power of the restored gospel are redemptive and saving.  If you will only allow His divine love into your life, it can dress any wound, heal any hurt, and soften any sorrow."

"Sisters, wherever you are, whatever your circumstances may be, you are not forgotten. No matter how dark your days may seem, no matter how insignificant you may feel, your Heavenly Father has not forgotten you.  In fact He loves you with an infinite love."