Response to Elder Eyring's "A Child of God"

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      Elder Eyring spoke of a strong learner and the attributes that encompass such an individual. He helps all identify these habits of a great learner and put them in our own lives. However, he emphasizes humility as a foundation to really growing as a learner and pride as hurdle that can hinder ones ability to becoming a hallmark of a learner.

              Elder Eyring spoke of the pursuit towards educational excellence and it's dependence on humility. I was baffled as I read across this because I never associated humility as a focus my schooling. I questioned the power that humility has over the unlearned and what contributions it can provide to one's growth. The answer seems simple, the Lord wants us to be humble so he can teach us. Who doesn't want the Lord on their side? Is he not the greatest ally, friend, teacher we have? I think most people can agree an education at BYU is not your leisure Sunday stroll through the park experience; to this Elder Eyring counsels "work hard"! With a humble heart we "rise up to the privileges God wants to grant us". Without a humble heart we rely on on our own strengths, but with God assistance  "nothing shall be impossible" (Luke 1:39). Not even that calculus class will hold you back!

             Elder Eyring brings up important characteristics of a strong learner, all of which contrast the prideful individual. He tells us foremost to "welcome correction". It's not the easiest to have someone point out your faults, but it is impossible to recognize them when one is full of pride. We are counseled not only to welcome correction it but to desire because none of us our perfect. It helps to know where you went wrong so you can improve! His second characteristic listed was that great learners keep commitments. He tells us "what all disciplines have in common is a search for rules and a commitment to them. No doubt the pride that one may have can destroy his commitments to rules or regulations. If one can't commit to rules of education, then what makes one think they can commit to the Lord? The last two characteristics of a great learner is that they work hard and expect resistance and eventually overcome it. I believe it is important for everyone to do their part with a humble heart and allow  Heavenly Father help you overcome the resistance.