Study Guide for "Three Sisters"

In his talk titled "Three Sisters," President Dieter F. Uchtdorf shares an allegorical story about three sisters—Sad, Mad, and Glad—to illustrate different approaches to life and how they affect our happiness and spiritual well-being. He encourages us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we can find joy and fulfillment through faith, trust in God, and discipleship in Jesus Christ.

Before Reading

Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:

Who are the three sisters described in the talk, and what do they represent?
How does each sister's attitude towards life affect her happiness and spiritual well-being?
What antidote does President Uchtdorf suggest for overcoming feelings of sadness or victimhood?
How does the concept of discipleship play a role in finding joy and fulfillment according to President Uchtdorf?

Topics

Overcome Victim Mentality

The first sister, Sad, represents those who see themselves as victims and allow external circumstances to control their happiness. President Uchtdorf advises remembering our divine heritage and identity as children of God to overcome this mentality.

Dear sisters, why should you surrender your happiness to someone, or a group of someones, who cares very little about you or your happiness?

You are the child of our merciful and everlasting Father in Heaven, the Lord of Hosts, the One who created the universe, spread the spinning stars across the vast expanse of space, and placed the planets in their appointed orbits.

You are in His hands. Very good hands. Loving hands. Caring hands.

What does it mean to see yourself as a victim?
How can remembering your divine heritage help you overcome feelings of sadness or victimhood?
Have you ever felt like a victim in your life? How did it affect your happiness?
What steps can you take to remember your divine heritage and identity when you feel sad or discouraged?

Overcome Anger and Hate

The second sister, Mad, represents those who are angry and blame others for their problems. President Uchtdorf emphasizes the importance of loving our enemies and overcoming anger through the teachings of Jesus Christ.

When we lash out at others to hurt, shame, or silence them—chances are we are not doing so in righteousness.

I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.

Why is it important to love our enemies according to the teachings of Jesus Christ?
How can anger and hate affect your spiritual well-being?
Reflect on a time when you felt anger towards someone. How did it affect your actions and thoughts?
What steps can you take to cultivate love and forgiveness towards those who may have wronged you?

Trust in God and Maintain Joy

The third sister, Glad, represents the authentic disciple of Jesus Christ who trusts in God and maintains joy despite difficulties. President Uchtdorf encourages us to stay on the path of discipleship and hold fast to the word of God.

She lived joyfully not because her circumstances were joyful but because she was joyful.

Stay on the path! Never let go of the rod of iron—the word of God!

What does it mean to be an authentic disciple of Jesus Christ?
How can trusting in God help you maintain joy in difficult circumstances?
When have you experienced joy despite challenging circumstances? What helped you maintain that joy?
How can you strengthen your trust in God and stay committed to the path of discipleship?

Stay on the Path of Discipleship

President Uchtdorf urges us to stay on the path of discipleship, using the allegory of Lehi's dream to illustrate the importance of holding fast to the word of God and not being swayed by the ridicule of the world.

Never let go of the rod of iron—the word of God!

The promises of praise and acceptance by the world are unreliable, untrue, and unsatisfying. God’s promises are sure, true, and joyful—now and forever.

What does the rod of iron represent in Lehi's dream?
Why is it important to hold fast to the word of God?
What challenges have you faced in staying on the path of discipleship?
How can you strengthen your commitment to holding fast to the word of God despite external pressures?

Find Joy in Discipleship

President Uchtdorf highlights the joy and fulfillment that come from choosing the path of discipleship. He encourages us to press on and find strength in Church organizations and fellow disciples.

I have learned for myself that the path of discipleship in the gospel of Jesus Christ is the way to joy.

Choosing this path of discipleship will lead to untold happiness and fulfillment of your divine nature.

What are the benefits of choosing the path of discipleship according to President Uchtdorf?
How can Church organizations support you in your journey of discipleship?
Reflect on a time when you felt joy from living the gospel of Jesus Christ. What contributed to that feeling?
How can you actively participate in Church organizations to strengthen your discipleship and support others?