President Gordon B. Hinckley was perhaps the most optimistic man I know. He has passed beyond the veil now, but he left a remarkable legacy. His positive attitude about life is part of that legacy. I can remember countless conference talks when he said something to this effect: "things will work out."
Because of this, I think people thought that his life was a piece of cake. If so, they'd be wrong. He had as many challenges as anyone. Even when he was an apostle and in the first presidency, he and his wife, Marjorie, lived in the little house they built in the East Millcreek section of Salt Lake City. He fixed things around the house himself, from the broken toaster to the tree that was bent by the wind. I think the secret to his good spirits and optimism was the fact that when he had a work to do, he did it. He didn't blame anyone for his circumstance, not even God. And he gave thanks for everything he had.
There is an old saying that the happiest people are not the ones who have what they want but the ones that want what they have. Paul told the Philippians not to worry about anything, but to give thanks for everything. That's sound advice.
President Hinckley's wife, Marjorie, added this secret to a happy and optimistic life. I might add that this includes worrying about things over which you have no control. Don't waste time and energy trying to solve those problems: use that time and energy to deal with those things which are in your stewardship.
The Hinckleys were incredible people. Latter-day Saints and nonmembers alike loved this couple. Is it any wonder that their children rise up and call them blessed?
Text copyright Gebara Education February 2013
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