Hearts Knit Together
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What was the unexpected result of the rabbit experiment and why is it significant?
- How does Elder Stevenson suggest we should treat each other?
- What is the role of kindness in our spiritual and physical well-being?
- What advice does Elder Stevenson give to different age groups within the church about kindness and compassion?
- How does Elder Stevenson relate the principles of kindness and compassion to gospel teachings?
Topics
Understanding the Power of Kindness through a Scientific Study
Elder Stevenson shares a scientific study conducted on rabbits that demonstrates the profound impact of kindness and care on health outcomes. The study showed that rabbits that were shown love and care had significantly better health outcomes than those that were not, despite being fed the same high-fat diet.
She did more than simply give the rabbits food. She gave them love!
At first glance, it seemed unlikely that this could be the reason for the dramatic difference, but the research team could see no other possibility.
- What was the surprising result of the rabbit experiment?
- How does this study demonstrate the impact of kindness and care on health?
- How can you apply the principle of kindness and care in your interactions with others?
- Can you recall a time when you experienced the impact of kindness and care on your own well-being?
Applying the Principle of Kindness in Our Lives
Elder Stevenson emphasizes the importance of kindness in our interactions with others, regardless of our age. He shares a story about a Primary boy who chose to stand up for a classmate who was being bullied, demonstrating the power of kindness and compassion.
I believe this principle has a universal application to all Latter-day Saints: adults, youth, and children.
I chose the right by helping a friend in need.
- How does Elder Stevenson suggest we apply the principle of kindness in our lives?
- What is the impact of choosing to be kind, according to the story of the Primary boy?
- How can you show more kindness in your interactions with others?
- Can you recall a time when you chose to be kind, even when it was difficult?
The Role of Adults as Role Models of Kindness
Elder Stevenson addresses adults, emphasizing their responsibility to set a tone of kindness, inclusion, and civility. He warns against the societal shift toward division and stresses the importance of being kind to everyone, regardless of their faith or race.
We have a primary responsibility to set a tone and be role models of kindness, inclusion, and civility—to teach Christlike behavior to the rising generation in what we say and how we act.
The Lord expects us to teach that inclusion is a positive means toward unity and that exclusion leads to division.
- What responsibility do adults have in setting an example of kindness, according to Elder Stevenson?
- What does Elder Stevenson say about the importance of inclusion?
- How can you be a better role model of kindness in your community?
- Can you recall a time when you chose inclusion over exclusion? How did it impact those involved?
Loving Our Enemies and Overcoming Adversity
Elder Stevenson discusses how to respond when we are hurt by the actions of others. He encourages us to love our enemies and pray for those who mistreat us. He shares a historical example of the Saints being helped by the residents of Quincy, Illinois, during a time of great adversity.
We follow the Lord’s admonition to “love your enemies … and pray for them which despitefully use you.”
When adversity and affliction are brought upon us by critical, negative, even mean-spirited acts, we can choose to hope in Christ.
- How does Elder Stevenson suggest we respond when we are hurt by others?
- What does the historical example of the Saints and the residents of Quincy teach us about overcoming adversity?
- How can you apply the principle of loving your enemies in your life?
- Can you recall a time when you chose to hope in Christ during a time of adversity?
The Good Shepherd's Care and Kindness
Elder Stevenson concludes his talk by comparing the loving researcher in the rabbit study to the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ. He testifies of Christ's personal interest in us and His ability to heal our hearts and restore our souls through His love and kindness.
The Good Shepherd knows each one of us by name and has a personal interest in us.
When we confront life’s wind and rainstorms, sickness and injuries, the Lord—our Shepherd, our Caregiver—will nourish us with love and kindness. He will heal our hearts and restore our souls.
- How does Elder Stevenson compare Jesus Christ to the researcher in the rabbit study?
- What does this comparison teach us about Christ's love and care for us?
- How have you experienced Christ's love and care in your life?
- How can you emulate the Good Shepherd's kindness and care in your interactions with others?
