A Personal Look at the Prophet

This week, I had the privilege of attending a meeting where Ann Dibb, the second counselor in the Young Women's general presideny, spoke.  She is also the daughter of President Thomas S. Monson. 

She talked about a variety of things including self confidence, problem solving, overcoming temptations, and embracing virtue.

She also presented the 100% challenge, and said that simply following it 100% of the time would make a distinct impact on our lives. The challenge includes three things:

1.  Pray morning and night.
2.  Read 5 minutes in the scriptures each day.
3.  Smile

I can do these.  I'm putting them on my to do list--I'll let you know how it goes.

Sister Dibb bore her testimony of the importance of having a prophet on the earth who is mindful of our needs today.  At the conclusion of her meeting she opened it up for questions about her father, the prophet.  It was fun to see him through her eyes.

Ann said she is a whiner and often feels sorry for herself and that her father is constantly trying to help her look on the bright side.  He often counsels her to let things go when there is no resolution.  Ann joked, "I do--after a few years."

She shared the fact that she often has the desire to go shopping on Sunday,but that she doesn't because she knows she would run into someone and get caught. President Monson reassured her that was not the real reason she doesn't go. It was refreshing to me to hear that this strong, amazing woman had a weakness like this. It made me respect her more.

I learned many fun tidbits about the prophet such as chocolate calls to him, and he whistles when he's happy. He has pigeons, loves musicals, fishing, springer spaniels, and going to the Utah Jazz games.

The question was asked if she could call her father anytime she wanted to talk to him. She said she's respectful of his time, knowing he has many important meetings to attend, but that she can call him when she needs him. She joked about the fact that she has to be conscious about leaving her ringer on so that he can call her. She said he leaves funny messages when she doesn't answer. "I just keep leavin' these messages . . ."

Her display included many candid pictures of her mother and father and said President Monson loves pictures of his wife. She said if you want to watch TV like the prophet, watch Perry Mason, Antiques Roadshow, Lawrence Welk, sports, and the news.

She closed by emphasizing that her father is not perfect, but she loves him anyway, and expressing gratitude for the example he sets of making others feel important and loved.

The evening with my daughters was one well spent. Sister Dibb's thoughts were very inspiring, and I left the meeting determined to be and do better, but also with the realization that I really am on the right path.