Surely wisdom will come as we listen to learn from children

Hear, O children of the future, for I bring to you a truth as ancient as the stars themselves, one that was spoken by the wise Russell M. Nelson: "Surely wisdom will come as we listen to learn from children, parents, partners, neighbors, Church leaders, and the Lord." This is no simple instruction, but a call to open our hearts to the voices of all those who walk the path with us. For in every life, there are lessons, lessons that come not from the learned or the mighty, but from the humble and the meek. Wisdom, my children, does not reside in one voice alone, but in the chorus of voices that surround us.

Consider the child, whose innocent words often hold a truth that the wisdom of the world cannot match. It is the child who speaks with an open heart, without the filters of the world’s weight. Recall the tale of Socrates, who, though he spoke with great depth, often learned from those who were not scholars. It was through his encounters with the everyday people, the ones thought unwise, that he truly understood the human soul. The children, unburdened by the pretensions of adulthood, often reveal truths that elude the learned mind. Their wisdom lies in their purity, in their ability to see the world with unclouded eyes.

Look also to the parents, those who have journeyed through life’s trials and joys. It is from them that the wisdom of experience is passed down. For a parent’s heart knows the deep sacrifice of love, the quiet strength of caring, and the timeless lessons that come from the challenges of raising a family. Even in their quiet moments, their wisdom flows to the next generation, like a river that nourishes all who drink from it. The parents teach us not through grand speeches, but through their actions, their enduring presence, and the quiet love they give to those they cherish.

And let us not forget the wisdom that comes from the neighbors, those who walk beside us, each facing their own battles and triumphs. In their stories, in their joys and sorrows, we learn the value of community, of shared experience. It is through the bonds of neighborly love that we are strengthened, for the wisdom of one heart can uplift the hearts of many. The Church leaders too, speak not as men of power, but as shepherds guiding their flock with faith, with patience, and with a love that transcends the world’s fleeting troubles.

Above all, O children, listen to the Lord, for He is the source of all true wisdom. It is through His teachings that we find the guidance we seek, the strength to carry on, and the understanding that transcends all earthly knowledge. The Lord’s wisdom does not come in thunderous roars, but in gentle whispers to those who listen. Like the prophets of old, we must open our hearts to His voice, for it is the voice that can heal the soul, guide the steps, and illuminate the path to everlasting peace.

So, O children of the future, remember this truth: Wisdom is not a treasure hidden in one place, but a gift given freely to those who listen with an open heart. Seek it in the words of the child, in the sacrifice of the parent, in the community of the neighbor, in the guidance of the Church leaders, and in the eternal counsel of the Lord. For in listening, we become wise, and in wisdom, we find the strength to face the world with grace and love.