One of the best classes I have been to all week was Thursdays class by Richard G. Moore about "The Quest for Humility." It was a very powerful message. Essentially, Brother Moore taught that humility is the gift that allows us to tap into Gods strength, thus giving us strength. He shared some wonderful examples from the lives of prophets.
Yesterday I wrote that I was unfamiliar with many of the teachers here. Actually, that is the opposite! I am familiar with many of the speakers, so this year I tried to select a few new teachers — thats how I discovered Brother Moore. I picked up his book about 6 months ago at our local LDS Bookstore and enjoyed it very much. I am here with a friend who is not as familiar with the instructors, so I was able to suggest some of the more seasoned speakers. I think anyone who is blessed to be here teaching at Education Week is great. As an Especially For Youth faculty member, I know how hard they work to prepare messages that will touch audiences with the spirit.
At the end of the day, we went to see the new film produced by the Maxwell Institute called "The New World." This is an amazing movie about the evidences of the Book of Mormon people during MesoAmerica times. It was so well done. The music was beautifully done and the interviews with archeologists and anthropologists was fascinating. The film is due for release to the public in late September through the Maxwell Institute (you can find them through the BYU website). I would highly recommend it.
Every day gets better and better at Education Week. Everyone is so patient in lines for food or classes. I have had no problem getting into any of my classes. On Thursday the weather was perfect and made the walks to and from buildings around campus pure joy.
On Thursday I also gained valuable insights into the difference between being an instrument and an agent. Joseph McConkie provided thought-provoking insights into what it truly means to have the companionship of the Holy Ghost. He shared the point that the Holy Ghost is the source and witness of those things that are lost to the world. The Holy Ghost teaches truths that separate Latter-day Saints from the rest of the world.
I couldnt finish the week without ice cream from the Creamery and dinner at Maglebys. The chocolate cake is 7 layers high and is worth the 12-hour drive from California!
(Lisa Olsen is from Redding, Calif. She has been married for 32 years and has four children and one granddaughter. She is a professional educator and is currently serving as an institute teacher and Primary music leader in Redding.)