Pearls

There was a story once of an old pearl farmer, who came into possession of the most amazing pearl. It was of great value and would undoubtedly  be something that many people would marvel at.

Knowing this, he contacted a box maker and instructed him to make a box that would be worthy to hold something of such beauty.

The box maker worked day and night and eventually crafted a box that he felt was worthy. The box was made from solid oak and had a rich color to it, and was studded with diamonds along the outside. Inside, it was lined with the most expensive silk, with every detail down to hinges which opened the box being perfectly aligned.

When it came time for the gala to present and show the pearl, the proud pearl farmer placed the pearl into the box, and carefully into the show glass.

As people filled through, the farmer would stand proudly to the side and try to hear a bit of what the onlookers thought of his amazing find.

Unfortunately for him, those who were observing the pearl, seemed to be so much more amazed by the box rather than the pearl itself. They would make comments about how well crafted and designed it was, and how beautifully it stood out from any other boxes, even when the pearl was what it was there to display.

Many times in this world, there are things of great value and importance that surround us. Many of which are "beautiful" and "well crafted" and all-in-all, good things to pay attention to! But how many of us notice the "pearls"? The reasons those "boxes" are there?

In this life, God has blessed us with many great things. But none of it would be possible or even matter if it were not for the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Only through him, can we find true happiness, and a remission of the guilt and sins which we bear! He is the true "pearl" of eternity

(Credit to Elder Neil L. Anderson who gave a similar address/analogy in a stake president/bishops training in August 2012)