Sunday Afternoon Session: Elder Richard H. Winkel
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Despite their shallow root system, the giant California redwoods can withstand wind and flood because their roots are interconnected.
"Even though they grow up to heights of 300 feet and can weigh 1 million pounds and more, these trees have a very shallow root system. Their roots go down 3-6 feet, but can spread out several hundred feet."
Like the giant redwoods, church members cannot make it alone.
"No man is an island. No man stands alone," the poem reads.
"Without being connected to other family members and helpful neighbors, they would not survive."
Similarly, new members cannot make it alone.
"The might appear to be independently strong as redwoods, but they need us and we need them. Don't we all do better when we are supported, sustained and loved by our families and friends? Even trees do better when they grow close together in groves. They grow taller, straighter, stronger and produce better lumber."
Callings in the church are designed to strengthen members and bless the lives of God's children. When the Savior called his disciples they made mistakes. So may new members. But through opportunity they will learn.
"We cannot overlook the potential of new members or misjudge their talents."
