Life's Lessons Learned

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“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. Introduction

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

PART II: BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY AND THE UTAH SUPREME COURT, 1971 TO 1984
14. Science and Religion
15. What Do You Want to Be Remembered For?
16. Assigning Reasons to Revelation
17. Adversity
18. Feelings
19. Goal Setting
20. Personal Revelation
21. Leadership

PART III: GENERAL AUTHORITY, 1984 TO PRESENT
22. Learned from Legal Training
23. Transition to the Apostleship
24. Unselfish Service
25. The Meaning of "Real Intent"
26. Refusing Requests
27. Recognizing Revelation
28. Labeling and Timing
29. Tithing Blessings
30. Sins and Mistakes
31. Looking info the Future
32. Principles versus Preferences
33. Caution in Sharing Spiritual Experiences
34. Death of a Spouse
35. Second Marriage
36. Shaking Hands at Stake Conferences
37. Good Fruits from Unlikely Sources
38. Testimony of Jesus Christ
Index