Problems and Potential

Vashti Murphy McKenzie, the first woman member of the council of bishops in the 213-year history of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, said a defining moment for her came when her father, a coach of the University of Wisconsin-Madison track team, did not use his influence to stop those who insisted on setting the high jump bar higher for her than the other members of the team.

She went on to win a gold medal in a large meet after such practice.

McKenzie said that when she asked her father why he hadn't changed her circumstances, he said, "I didn't because your potential was greater than your problem and your problem brought out your potential."

I have been thinking about what McKenzie's father said to her. Over the last few days I have been struggling with some ideas, my 'potential,' and the challenges I have been presented. I have had to work it out in my mind, with help from great friends and the Spirit.

I just wanted the answers. That was all. Just the answers to my provocative questions... But Heavenly Father wouldn't hand them over. I still don't have a full grasp on everything, but I think I am coming to understand bit by bit.

Now, as I sit here I think of how many times Heavenly Father doesn't change the circumstances for us. He doesn't change them because our potential is greater than the problem that is before us; and it is through that problem that our potential comes out.

I had the opportunity to go visiting teaching tonight and I think sometimes the things the Spirit directs us to share end up being more for us than the person we are sharing with. President Henry B. Eyring said, "I pray that you will ask, ‘Father, how can I prepare?’ Tell him how much you want what he desires to give you. You will receive impressions, and if you act on them, I promise you the help of the powers of heaven."

How cool is that? Ask what you can do, and tell him what you want. In return He will guide you, and if you follow His guidance, you will have the powers of heaven on your side. Genial!

In a sense, it is simple. But for some reason we make it seem difficult. Or maybe it's just the world exaggerating things... Ask and ye shall receive, knock and it shall be opened to you.