On Tuesday, May 20, 2008 we were able to attend a Salt Lake Temple devotional with Elder Richard G. Scott of the quorum of the twelve as speaker. He talked about understanding doctrine related to temple worship. He said that if there were no atonement there would be no mercy--only justice. He advised that we read the scriptures about the atonement for more understanding, recognize the significance of doing family history for temple work, schedule regular visits to the temple and leave enough time so temple visits can be unhurried. Elder Scott's wife died 13 years ago and he committed to attend the temple once a week at that time. If he is too busy traveling, he makes it up later. He said that the longer we are in the temple the more it blesses our lives. He suggested that we do more than one ordinance each time. And that there is significance in all that is said and done there. He also suggested that we notice how we relate to the Savior and how He relates to Heavenly Father. Be mindful of the person you are doing the ordinance for. At times listen in different languages using headphones, especially if the person is from another country and notice how long they have been waiting for their work to be done. We should express gratitude for the blessings of the temple and specifically mention them in our prayers. We need to do the sealing ordinances more often to hear the blessings promised. Even after your spouse dies you can grow together and feel their spirit near. Joseph R. Smith in an April 1916 General Conference talk said that those who have died know more and are interested in those still living on earth. We are closely related to them. We live in their presence. They can see our temptations and problems and care about us. Elder Scott emphasized Alma 7: 23. Being humble means to depend on the Spirit and be teachable, submissive and gentle, having no contention and being Christlike, not stubborn when taught and counseled but to listen. Also be forgiving. Long suffering means to be patient without complaining, also enduring to the end or rejoicing to the end. When you are patient and long suffering you qualify for guidance. Temperate means moderate and reasonable. Be diligent in keeping the commandments. Show gratitude for blessings. Help your children to know that your mission is important and that it increases your capacities and joys in giving service in serving missions. There are three ways to learn--hearing-the least important way to learn. Seeing is more important, we can observe. Feeling is the most important. It helps us to learn and get answers from the Spirit. In a spiritual environment we can learn from the Spirit so we need to be available spiritually. If you take notes on talks you should take the notes on your FEELINGS more than on the words you hear. Elder Scott had a very gentle and kind spirit about him. It was a great experience to hear him speak.