In his talk “Let Him Do It with Simplicity” Elder L Tom Perry speaks about the importance of slowing down, and assessing what is the most important in your life. He begins the talk by sharing a time in his life when he was under considerable stress. The way that he and his wife found peace was to go to a pond, and talk together or just sit together. It helped to put things into perspective. The pond just happened to be Walden Pond, and Elder Perry speaks briefly on the journey of self-discovery that Thoreau went through.
Elder Perry goes on to speak of the things that Thoreau said men really needed in order to survive. The first thing was food. Elder Perry points out that we are counseled in the Word of Wisdom to eat healthy, nutritious food and to care for our bodies. He goes on to stress the importance of exercise and avoiding substances that can become addictive. As we do these things we will better be able to feel the spirit.
The next thing Elder Perry speaks of is clothing. He warns of the race of staying in style and wearing clothing that is not appropriate. Elder Perry urges us to choose modest clothing. He also speaks of life being simpler when you choose modest clothing. He points out that we can be an example to others by the way that we dress.
The third thing Elder Perry speaks of is shelter. He speaks about the current housing crisis, and urges us to live within our means. He counsels that we should have our income determine the size and type of home we purchase, and to stop worrying about impressing others. He really stresses avoiding all types of debt.
The final thing elder Perry speaks about is fuel. He acknowledges that Thoreau was speaking of fuel for heat and energy, but instead chooses to focus on spiritual fuel. He refers to the parable of the virgins, and asks us to build reserve of spiritual strength, just like the five virgins had a reserve of oil.
Elder Perry ends his talk by counseling us to simplify our lives. In each of the areas he speaks of it is important to find a healthy balance. He counsels that as we do this we can have the Holy Ghost as a companion, and be able to weather the storms ahead.
I really enjoyed this talk. Elder Perry gave excellent counsel. So many of our problems can be addressed by choosing to do things in moderation. It is also true that as we put the Lord first, we will be able to make righteous choices, and have the strength to deal with our trials. I hope that you will take the time to read this talk.
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